Delhi Metro Unlocks Central Hubs: Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House Gates Open

NEW DELHI — The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) reopened entry gates at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat metro stations on Saturday, July 25, 2026, restoring access to central Delhi’s busiest interchange hubs.

The decision follows temporary entry restrictions enforced by law enforcement agencies due to security arrangements around ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar and elevated security protocols in central Delhi. While interchange facilities had remained operational during the restrictions, the reopening of entry and exit gates provides crucial relief to hundreds of thousands of daily commuters, including government employees, students, and legal professionals traveling across the National Capital Region (NCR).

Targeted Security Adjustments Along Central Transit Corridors

The temporary gate closures at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat were implemented as part of law enforcement measures to manage crowd movement and law and order near key government installations. Rajiv Chowk serves as the primary intersection between the Yellow and Blue Lines, while Mandi House links the Blue and Violet Lines, and Central Secretariat links the Yellow and Violet Lines.

According to security updates released by urban transit authorities, entry gates were restricted selectively over recent days while train transfers inside the concourses remained functional. The reopening of all entry gates allows full pedestrian access directly into Connaught Place, the cultural district near Mandi House, and administrative offices near Central Secretariat.

Passenger Impact and Network Operations

Restricted access at these key central hubs over recent days caused significant congestion along surface feeder roads, with commuters relying heavily on auto-rickshaws, buses, and app-based cabs to navigate central Delhi. The Supreme Court Bar Association and local trade bodies previously noted that travel disruptions affected daily schedules for court attendees, office workers, and retail hubs around Connaught Place.

With entry gates reopened, passenger traffic at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat is expected to normalize rapidly. Transit officials confirmed that extra security personnel remain deployed at entry points to monitor passenger flow and perform routine security checks.

Official Sources Section

According to official service updates issued by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation on its official communication channels and advisories published by the Delhi Police, entry gates across Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat are fully accessible for passenger boarding and disembarking.

Quote Section

"According to officials from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, passenger entry gates at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat have been opened following clearance from security agencies, ensuring full access across central Delhi transit nodes."

Why It Matters

Reopening access at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat restores core mobility across the capital's central business and administrative zone. For millions of NCR residents, these stations serve as non-negotiable entry points into daily workplaces, educational institutions, and government ministries.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Stations Reopened: Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat entry/exit gates are fully operational.

• Interchange Status: Train switching facilities remained operational throughout the gate closure period.

• Primary Reason: Temporary closures were executed due to security arrangements surrounding protests near central Delhi.

• Network Advisory: DMRC urges passengers to check official service updates before planning journeys through central Delhi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all entry gates open at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat?

Yes, according to official updates from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, entry gates at all three central stations have been opened for passenger movement.

Were train interchanges working while the gates were closed?

Yes, the DMRC maintained uninterrupted interchange facilities at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat during the entry gate restrictions, allowing passengers to switch lines.

Where can commuters check live updates for Delhi Metro status?

Commuters can monitor live operational advisories on the official Delhi Metro Rail Corporation X handle and mobile application.

Source: Service updates and press statements issued by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation and security advisories from Delhi Police.