AI Summit Gridlock
Commuters in Delhi grappled with extensive traffic snarls on Monday, largely attributed to security arrangements and route diversions implemented for the
India AI Impact Summit. Numerous social media users documented the severe congestion, reporting vehicles stalled for prolonged periods and significant disruptions to traffic flow across major arteries of the national capital. Reports indicated that these traffic woes were exacerbated by VIP movements and specific road closures associated with the AI Impact Summit 2026, which was held at Bharat Mandapam. Adding to the traffic woes was the concurrent wedding season and the start of board examinations, creating a perfect storm of commuter challenges.
Board Exam Disruptions
The commencement of board examinations for classes 10 and 12 on Tuesday posed an additional challenge for Delhi residents. The Delhi Traffic Police issued a preemptive advisory on Sunday, detailing routes and restrictions pertinent to both the AI Impact Summit and the board exams. This advisory aimed to inform students, parents, and other commuters about potential disruptions. Notably, the traffic police highlighted ten schools situated on primary VVIP movement routes where exams would be conducted. To ensure students and staff could reach examination centers smoothly, nodal officers were stationed at these specific schools to provide assistance and manage any localized traffic issues.
Summit Overview
The India AI Impact Expo 2026, running concurrently with the India AI Impact Summit, was a significant event scheduled from February 16 to February 20. This expo was designed to be a sprawling platform, encompassing 10 arenas and covering over 70,000 square metres. It aimed to bring together a diverse range of participants, including leading global technology firms, emerging startups, academic institutions, research bodies, various Union Ministries, State Governments, and international collaborators. The event also featured thirteen country pavilions, showcasing international partnerships within the artificial intelligence sector. Countries such as Australia, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Serbia, Estonia, Tajikistan, and a collective of African nations were represented, highlighting global cooperation in AI.
