Delhi Metro to Begin Services at 4 AM for Independence Day 2025 Celebrations
Early Metro Services for Smooth Commute
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that train services will start at 4:00 a.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, to facilitate the movement of guests, invitees, and the general public attending the 79th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. According to DMRC’s advisory, all metro lines will operate at a frequency of 30 minutes until 6:00 a.m., after which the regular timetable will resume.
DMRC has also stated that special QR tickets will be provided to individuals holding a bona fide Invitation Card issued by the Ministry of Defence for the ceremony. The cost of these special travel passes will be reimbursed to DMRC by the Ministry. The Lal Quila, Jama Masjid, and Delhi Gate Metro stations will be the closest and most convenient for reaching the venue.
Special Travel Pass for Invitees
Invitees attending the official ceremony will receive a QR code ticket allowing them to travel to and from the event free of cost. This initiative is designed to streamline access to the Red Fort and reduce congestion on the day of the celebrations.
Traffic Restrictions Around Red Fort
Ahead of Independence Day, Delhi Police has imposed strict traffic restrictions around the Red Fort. During the full-dress rehearsal, several key roads — including Lothian Road, Chandni Chowk Road, SP Mukherjee Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg, and Nishad Raj Marg — were closed to general traffic between 4:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Traffic diversions were also implemented from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Salimgarh Bypass, and Vikas Marg to ensure smooth mobility and enhanced security.
Heightened Security Measures
Security has been intensified across Delhi ahead of the celebrations. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has stepped up security checks at all metro stations until August 16, with commuters advised to allow extra travel time. Passengers may experience longer queues, especially during peak hours, as frisking and baggage checks will be more rigorous.
DMRC has urged commuters to keep belongings ready for inspection to speed up the screening process and to cooperate with CISF personnel. Additional CISF forces have been deployed at each station to handle increased passenger volumes.
Advanced Surveillance and Technology Deployment
Authorities have expanded surveillance measures, introducing drone detection systems and upgrading the CCTV network across the capital. Over 700 high-definition cameras equipped with facial recognition technology and AI-based crowd monitoring have been installed. Rooftops of high-rise buildings near the Red Fort will be patrolled by monitoring teams and sharpshooters to ensure complete aerial and ground-level security.
In total, around 10,000 security personnel, including paramilitary forces and special commandos, will be stationed across Delhi. The traffic police force alone will deploy over 3,000 officials to manage road movement during the festivities.
Public Advisory from DMRC
The DMRC has advised passengers to plan their travel in advance to avoid delays and overcrowding. With early metro operations, officials aim to reduce traffic congestion on key approach roads to the Red Fort and facilitate seamless travel for attendees.
The corporation has also emphasized the importance of public cooperation during security checks and travel restrictions. The advisory encourages travelers to account for additional commute time and to adhere to safety protocols for a smooth Independence Day celebration.
Independence Day Preparations in Full Swing
The full-dress rehearsal for the celebrations has already taken place, featuring cultural performances, marching contingents, and the complete ceremonial protocol that will be replicated on August 15. Authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the Independence Day 2025 celebrations are safe, secure, and accessible for all attendees.
With the combination of early metro services, special travel passes, advanced security technology, and extensive ground deployment, Delhi is prepared to host the nation’s 79th Independence Day with both grandeur and safety.
