Delhi's NDMC proposes vehicle-free zone at Connaught Place's Inner Circle

The proposal would designate the Inner Circle as vehicle-free for specific time slots, with NDMC Chairman Dwivedi suggesting two possible schedules: 6 pm to midnight during summer months and 11 am to 4 pm in winter. The initiative aims to allow visitors greater freedom to walk and explore the busy commercial hub without navigating around traffic.

Dwivedi has also raised the possibility of maintaining a complete vehicle ban throughout the day, depending on public response and feasibility assessments. The chair has called for input from citizens on preferred activities and uses for the space when vehicles are restricted, inviting suggestions for what could enhance the area during no-vehicle periods.

The proposal builds on previous pedestrian initiatives at the venue, including "Raahgiri@CP," a programme that has periodically opened the Inner Circle to pedestrians on select Sundays. The new plan represents a potential expansion of such measures into a more regular framework to balance commercial operations with improved walkability in one of Delhi's most prominent shopping and business destinations.

The NDMC's move aligns with growing efforts in Indian cities to create pedestrian-friendly public spaces and reduce vehicular congestion in commercial zones. The corporation is actively seeking public consultation before finalising implementation details and timings for the proposed restrictions.