Delhi traffic advisory: Old Iron Bridge closed amid Yamuna flood threat; alternative routes announced

In response to rising water levels in the Yamuna River, Delhi Traffic Police have closed the Old Iron Bridge, also known as the Loha Pul, from 4:00 PM on 2 September 2025 until further notice, to safeguard commuters and prevent potential flooding hazards.Officials emphasised that both vehicular and pedestrian movement over the bridge will be halted. Authorities have also deployed traffic diversions and urged road users to avoid the area entirely.

Diversion routes in place

To ease the impact of the closure, the Delhi Traffic Police provided a set of alternative routes for different parts of the city:From ISBT Kashmere Gate, Old Delhi Railway Station, and Red Fort: Traffic will be diverted via Hanuman Setu, connecting to the Outer Ring Road, then looping via Raja Ram Kohli Marg to Geeta Colony Road.From Rajghat or Shanti Van (via Bela Road): Detours lead through the Bela Road T-Point on Ring Road, past Shanti Van Chowk, onto Raja Ram Kohli Marg, before rejoining at Geeta Colony Road.Read more: Why the world’s largest palace stayed forbidden for more than 500 yearsFrom Northeast Delhi (Shahdara, Seelampur, Shastri Park): Vehicles should take Pushta Road, then loop via Raja Ram Kohli Marg and onto Ring Road.From East Delhi (Akshardham, Mayur Vihar, Pandav Nagar): Drivers are advised to travel via Geeta Colony Flyover → Geeta Colony Road T-Point → Shanti Van Chowk → Ring Road (MGM).

Delhi Traffic Police are also recommending that commuters plan for extra travel time, rely more on public transport to reduce congestion, and avoid roadside parking to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

Safety measures

Following the closure, drone footage confirmed the severity of the situation, showing Yamuna flowing well above its typical danger levels around the Old Iron Bridge area.Simultaneously, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inspected relief arrangements near the Loha Pul and Geeta Colony Flyover.

She reassured citizens that government teams remain fully alert and have prepared relief camps and evacuation protocols as needed. She also asked the public to remain calm and cooperate during this time.The Loha Pul serves as a vital link connecting Central Delhi, such as Kashmere Gate and Old Delhi Railway Station, with areas in East Delhi. Its closure is expected to strain traffic across multiple key junctions, especially during peak hours.As climate shifts continue to bring erratic monsoon patterns and intense rainfall, Delhi authorities are increasingly focusing on resilient infrastructure and improved disaster response to reduce disruption and keep residents safe.Read more: 10 of the world's greatest safari parks to visit once in a lifetime

Quick tips for commuters

Avoid the Old Iron Bridge and surrounding areas.Follow diversion maps and traffic personnel.Give yourself extra travel time — delays are expected.Prioritize public transport when possible.Avoid roadside parking and report any unusual activity immediately.