Delhi traffic plan rolled out as CBSE board exams coincide with global AI summit

With Class 10 and 12 board exams beginning February 17 and a major international AI summit underway at Bharat Mandapam, authorities deploy special traffic measures to ensure students reach exam centres smoothly despite VVIP movement.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will commence the 2026 Class 10 and 12 board examinations from February 17 across centres nationwide, including several in the national capital. This year, the examinations overlap with a major international AI summit scheduled in central Delhi, prompting authorities to implement an extensive traffic management strategy.

Significant VVIP movement is expected around Bharat Mandapam between February 17 and 19 due to the summit. To prevent disruptions for students travelling to examination centres, the Delhi government and traffic police have coordinated a special plan covering key stretches in central and Lutyens’ Delhi.

In an official communication, the Directorate of Education stated that comprehensive arrangements are being put in place to ensure safe and timely travel for candidates while accommodating security-related traffic restrictions.

Special arrangements around exam centres

According to Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) D. K. Gupta, 34 schools located within a five-kilometre radius of Bharat Mandapam will have dedicated traffic personnel assigned to manage congestion and coordinate movement. These officers will work closely with education department representatives designated as nodal officers.

Of these 34 institutions, 10 schools are functioning as board examination centres, collectively catering to 2,943 students. Given their proximity to summit venues, these centres are likely to experience the most direct impact from traffic diversions. The remaining 24 schools in the surrounding area may also see regulated movement during peak hours.

Authorities have advised commuters that key corridors such as Mathura Road, Bhairon Marg and C-Hexagon will remain accessible, with alternative routes mapped out to minimise inconvenience.

Schools weigh online classes

In view of anticipated congestion, some schools are considering temporarily shifting regular classes to online mode during the summit period. School administrators have indicated that parents will be informed about suggested travel routes and advised to factor in additional commute time.

Traffic flow is also expected to increase around prominent hotels hosting summit delegates, potentially affecting nearby roads. Education officials have urged students and parents to stay in close contact with their respective schools for timely updates and instructions.