The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that 18 stations will remain closed for entry and exit from 7:30 am on July 25. According to information released by Delhi Metro, the affected stations include Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, Seva Teerth, Janpath, Mandi House, Central Secretariat, ITO, Delhi Gate, Indraprastha, Khan Market, Jor Bagh, Shivaji Stadium, Jhandewalan and New Delhi.
The decision has been taken considering passenger convenience and security amid the continuing demonstrations at Jantar Mantar. DMRC has clarified that interchange facilities will continue at some of the closed stations, allowing passengers to change metro lines without exiting the station premises. At Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat, commuters will be able to switch lines while remaining inside the stations.
However, increased crowding may be witnessed at these interchange stations, and passengers have been advised to plan their journeys in advance. Certain restrictions will also remain applicable on the Airport Express Line.
The protests near Jantar Mantar have also affected schools in Central Delhi. According to a report by The Indian Express, parents have raised concerns over the difficulties in bringing children back from schools, saying, “How will we bring children from school? Children remain stuck in buses for hours.” These concerns have emerged among parents whose children study in Central Delhi schools, where daily commuting has become difficult due to the demonstrations.
Amid uncertainty, several schools have shifted to online or hybrid modes as metro services and mobile connectivity have been affected, while barricades have been placed on major roads. Schools located near the protest site include Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Raghuvir Singh Junior Modern School, Modern School on Barakhamba Road and St. Columbus School.
The affected Central Delhi metro stations are used by lakhs of people every day. Government employees, court visitors and people connected with nearby markets are expected to face the biggest impact due to the temporary restrictions. DMRC has urged commuters to use alternative routes, buses or autos and check live updates through the official app or website.
DMRC and Delhi Police have stated that the measures have been implemented only for security reasons. Efforts for a peaceful resolution of the protest are also continuing. Passengers have been advised to leave early, avoid crowded areas and check real-time information on the metro app.
The Jantar Mantar protest has become a major demonstration demanding changes in the education system, while its impact on daily movement and public services in Central Delhi continues to be visible.
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