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Drones to track traffic movement, spot congestion during BRICS Summit in Delhi

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Sakshi Chand

September 4, 2026
Drones to track traffic movement, spot congestion during BRICS Summit in Delhi

Delhi is implementing drone surveillance and city-wide beautification efforts to manage traffic and infrastructure ahead of the upcoming BRICS Summit. A public holiday has been declared for September 11 to facilitate security and logistics during the high-profile event.

Delhi Gears Up for the BRICS Summit: A Multi-Faceted Transformation

As the national capital prepares to host the prestigious BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13, the Delhi administration has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of its urban management and security protocols. The preparations, which involve both high-tech surveillance and aesthetic urban renewal, reflect the city's intent to project a streamlined image to global delegates while ensuring the smooth movement of traffic during the high-stakes event.

The Integration of Aerial Surveillance

In a significant shift toward technology-driven traffic management, Delhi Traffic Police have deployed drones to monitor vehicular movement. This initiative marks a pivotal change in how the capital manages its notorious congestion. By tracking traffic patterns from the sky, authorities can identify bottlenecks in real-time, particularly along arterial roads that are vital for the summit's logistical flow. This drone-based strategy is not merely a temporary measure for the summit but serves as a prototype for future urban management during protests, processions, and festive seasons.

Infrastructure and Beautification Efforts

Beyond security and traffic, the city is undergoing a visual transformation. Reports indicate that municipal efforts have intensified to ensure clean roads, functional public toilets, and the installation of decorative flower fountains. Furthermore, the deployment of 154 screens across the city highlights a commitment to integrating modern infrastructure into the urban landscape. These improvements aim to provide a polished experience for international visitors and demonstrate the city’s capacity to host global leaders.

Logistical Adjustments and Public Holidays

To minimize movement-related challenges during the summit, the Delhi government has officially declared September 11 as a public holiday. By bridging this holiday with the subsequent weekend, the administration aims to significantly reduce traffic density on the roads. This strategic decision is essential for creating a 'sterile' environment for summit-related movements, ensuring that the necessary security protocols and logistical corridors remain unencumbered by daily commuter traffic.

Future Implications for Urban Management

This integration of drones and infrastructure upgrades signals a broader trend in Indian urban administration. The transition from manual, ground-level traffic monitoring to a bird's-eye view suggests that Delhi is moving toward a more proactive, data-centric approach to city management. If the deployment of drones proves successful during the BRICS Summit, it is highly likely that such technology will become a permanent fixture in the police force’s standard operating procedures for managing the capital's complex traffic ecosystem.

Conclusion

The convergence of security, beautification, and administrative policy—marked by the holiday declaration and the use of drone surveillance—underscores the gravity of the BRICS Summit. By leveraging technology to solve long-standing infrastructure challenges, the Delhi government is not only preparing for a single event but is also testing a new blueprint for managing the logistical demands of a rapidly growing global city.

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