The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) closed 18 metro stations on Saturday due to protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), restricting train services on the Airport Express Line to run only between Dhaula Kuan and Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25, according to livemint.com. The closures caused significant travel disruptions in the national capital.
The DMRC issued a list of the affected stations and announced the limited operation on the Airport Express Line as a precautionary measure amid heightened security arrangements. The protest by the CJP prompted authorities to take these steps to manage crowd control and ensure passenger safety. Commuters faced inconvenience, especially near New Delhi Railway Station, where the metro station was closed on Friday as well.
This disruption highlights the impact of political protests on urban transit infrastructure in Delhi, one of the busiest metro networks in India. Similar closures and service restrictions have been used in the past to mitigate risks during large-scale demonstrations. The Airport Express Line, which connects key points including the airport, is particularly sensitive to such disruptions due to its importance for business and travel.
The DMRC's official update on July 25 detailed the stations closed and the adjusted service schedule. Passengers were advised to plan alternative routes as the metro network adjusted operations to accommodate security concerns during the CJP protest.