Security clampdown due to protests, commuters have a tough time

NEW DELHI: Commuters headed towards central Delhi were today at the receiving end of a security clampdown to contain protests against the gangrape of a young girl as the police put up barricades on Rajpath and closing down Metro stations near India Gate and Raisina Hills.

The police set up barricades throughout Rajpath and did not allow vehicular movement on the stretch that leads to Raisina Hills.

The common people, who were on foot, were also not allowed to take certain stretches to cross Rajpath.

Eight metro stations -Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan, Race Course Road, Barakhamba Road, Mandi House, Khan Market and Pragati Maidan - were closed for public till further orders.

Though the commuters were less in the morning it being Sunday, the few who chose to take the Metro to reach these destinations were put to hardship as they unaware of the announcement made late last night by DMRC.

Several people, who were headed to Connaught Place from south Delhi, had to take longer routes as the police did not allow traffic on Rajpath.

"There were no advisories or anything. We are stuck. If they take decisions late in the night and do not publicise them, then this will happen. This is harassment of the people," said Nisha, who was heading to her office in Connaught Place.