Lionel Messi in Delhi: The national capital has gone into high-alert mode as global football icon Lionel Messi arrived in Delhi, marking the final stop of his much-anticipated GOAT Tour of India. With memories of crowd chaos from Kolkata still fresh, the Delhi Police has rolled out elaborate security and traffic arrangements to ensure a smooth and incident-free event at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Messi, the 2022 FIFA World Cup champion and one of the most celebrated athletes in sports history, is scheduled to attend a special event at the stadium on Monday between 1 pm and 4 pm.
Heavy Security Deployment After Kolkata Chaos
Delhi Police officials confirmed that multi-layered security cover has been put in place, especially in central Delhi, keeping in mind the unrest witnessed during Messi’s Kolkata visit, where fans protested after failing to get a clear glimpse of the football legend.
A senior police officer said the arrangements focus heavily on crowd control, access management, surveillance, and traffic regulation.
“Public safety remains our top priority. Multiple security rings, strict entry protocols, and enhanced monitoring have been enforced,” the officer said.
Multiple Security Rings and Strict Entry Rules
What’s in place at Arun Jaitley Stadium?
- Multiple security perimeters around the venue
- Deployment of additional Delhi Police personnel and paramilitary forces
- Entry allowed only with valid passes
- Anti-sabotage checks and frisking points
- Continuous surveillance through CCTV cameras
- Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and emergency response units on standby
Senior supervisory officers will remain stationed at the venue throughout the event to respond swiftly to any situation.
Traffic Restrictions Issued: Routes to Avoid
Advisory for Commuters
Delhi Police has issued a detailed traffic advisory, warning commuters of congestion in and around the stadium area from late morning onwards.
Public movement is expected to increase from 11 am.
Commuters have been advised to avoid the following stretches from 10 am till the event concludes:
- Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
- ITO
- Delhi Gate
- Netaji Subhash Marg
- Brijmohan Chowk
Parking Arrangements for Visitors
According to DCP (Traffic) Nishant Gupta, parking facilities have been clearly demarcated to prevent congestion:
Designated Parking Areas
- Labelled vehicles:
- P1 near Vikram Nagar
- Non-labelled vehicles:
- Rajghat Powerhouse parking
- Mata Sundari Lane
From these points, visitors will need to walk to the stadium.
Taxi & App-Based Cab Advisory
- Cab users should get down at Rajghat Chowk
- Walking access to the stadium only
🚫 Parking is strictly prohibited around Arun Jaitley Stadium
Vehicles found violating norms will be towed and fined, police warned.
Public Urged to Use Metro and Buses
To ease pressure on city roads, authorities have strongly encouraged the public to rely on Delhi Metro and public buses. This move is aimed at ensuring smoother traffic flow and reducing last-minute congestion in the stadium’s vicinity.
Delhi Gears Up for a Historic Sporting Moment
After largely peaceful events in Hyderabad and Mumbai, Delhi is determined to ensure Messi’s visit concludes on a high note. With tight security, regulated access, and traffic planning in place, authorities are confident of delivering a safe and memorable experience for fans.
As the football world watches, Delhi prepares to welcome one of the greatest players of all time — under vigilant eyes and carefully planned arrangements.