If you live in Jamia Nagar or are planning to visit the locality today, it is strongly advised to avoid certain key roads between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm, as a Chehlum procession is scheduled to take place, according to a resident familiar with the arrangements.
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Although no official traffic advisory has been made public at the time of writing this report, local resident Javed cautioned that the roads in this part of Okhla are expected to become heavily congested during the procession and should be avoided to prevent delays.
Another resident informed the OT that commuters should plan their travel in advance and steer clear of the affected stretches to minimise inconvenience. Mohd Ayan Naqvi told the OT that the roads will remain closed during the procession and urged residents to help spread the message so that the general public faces minimal inconvenience.
Roads closed for traffic:
- Noor Nagar Road
- Johri Farm Road
- Okhla Vihar Road
- Tikona Park stretch
- Okhla Road near Jamia Metro Station
- Batla House Bus Stand area
- Zakir Nagar Main Road
- Batla House Chowk
- Nafees Road
- Mustafa Masjid Road
The closure will impact key connecting points within Okhla, Jamia Nagar, and surrounding localities, which are already prone to congestion during peak hours, he said.
Advisory for commuters from residents
- Avoid the listed stretches between 4 pm and 8 pm.
- Use alternative routes where possible to ensure smooth movement.
- Allow extra travel time if their commute intersects with these areas.
It is understood that traffic personnel will be deployed to manage diversions and assist the public. Local residents are requested to cooperate and spread the information to reduce disruption, said the resident.
Why the closure?
The Chehlum procession is expected to witness significant participation, leading to temporary diversions for the safety of participants and the general public. Every year, a large number of residents participate in this annual march. Speaking to the OT, Syed Wasi Imam clarified that this is not the Chehlum procession, but a Shia community march that takes place annually in the area. He said the march was not held during the Covid-19 lockdown due to restrictions on public gatherings.
Public appeal
The organisers have requested the community to share this advisory widely so that maximum residents are aware and inconvenience is minimised.
The annual jaloos has sparked a divide among residents, with some supporting the tradition while others argue that it should be held in an open space to reduce disruption.
“Chehlum processions are organised frequently, but many Shia residents in Okhla themselves believe that this particular event should be reconsidered,” said Javed. “The area is densely populated, and during the procession, roads become completely choked, causing significant inconvenience for commuters and residents alike. It would be more practical to hold the event in an open ground where participants can gather without disrupting daily life.”
