G20 Summit Triggers Lockdown in New Delhi: Swerd Media Reports
New Delhi, India – The capital city of India, New Delhi, is currently experiencing a complete lockdown as it prepares to host the highly-anticipated G20 Summit. Swerd Media reports that the closure, which began at midnight on Thursday, has transformed the usually bustling and congested central business district into a ghost town. The area, typically teeming with activity, is now deserted, with minimal vehicular traffic and a significant increase in security personnel.
The G20 Summit, scheduled to take place in New Delhi, has attracted world leaders from across the globe. Notable attendees include U.S. President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed Bin Salman, and Japan’s Fumio Kishida. These prominent figures, along with their respective teams, are currently staying in luxury hotels located near the summit venue.
To ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the event, approximately 130,000 police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in the city. The air force is also providing aerial coverage, demonstrating the magnitude of security measures in place. In an effort to clear the area surrounding the summit venue, city authorities have cleared slums and attempted to remove monkeys and stray dogs from the vicinity.
Unfortunately, the lockdown has had economic repercussions for local shopkeepers. Premier shopping districts such as Connaught Place and Khan Market have been forced to shut down, leading to an estimated loss of 4 billion rupees ($48 million). The closure of these shops has not only impacted the livelihoods of the shopkeepers but has also affected the overall economy of the area.
Delhi residents have been urged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bear the inconveniences caused by the summit and cooperate with the security restrictions. Offices, schools, shops, taxis, and buses are not permitted in the restricted area. This includes app-based taxi and food delivery services, which are also barred. However, authorities have been assuring the public that the restrictions only apply to a portion of the city.
While it remains uncertain whether the lockdown will be extended to the old city’s bustling bazaars, a number of shops were closed on the first day of the summit. Some store owners have made appeals to allow the area to remain open, particularly for tourists attending the summit.
The Delhi Police have played an active role in informing the public about the restrictions through newspaper advertisements. Traffic advisories and route maps have been published, emphasizing India’s pride in hosting the G20 Summit and the importance of ensuring a safe and successful event.
As New Delhi remains under lockdown for the G20 Summit, Swerd Media will continue to provide updates on the developments surrounding this significant international gathering.
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