Several parts of Delhi witness massive traffic jams as thousands flock outdoor for New Year

Several parts of the national capital saw massive vehicular congestion, with even ambulances reportedly stuck in traffic jams at some places, as thousands stepped out to celebrate New Year on Wednesday.

In some cases, it took the commuters hours to reach their destinations.

Entry and exit gates of five Delhi Metro stations were closed in the evening to deal with the rush of passengers.

A large number of people flocked to the central Delhi. Commuters were stuck in traffic jams on roads leading to the India Gate, Connaught Place, Mathura Road and ITO.

"It feels like the entire Delhi is headed to the India Gate. It is a pleasant spot to celebrate but the crowd is a deterrent," said Rahul Chugh, who was at the India Gate.

Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Taj Hasan said around 70,000 people thronged to India Gate, causing massive vehicular traffic.

"Necessary traffic diversions were made to control the congestion. The traffic was not completely stalled but there was a slow movement of vehicles. With necessary traffic diversions, the congestion was brought under control," he added.

The Delhi Traffic Police was constantly alerting commuters about the vehicular traffic through its official handle on Twitter.

"It took me two hours to reach India Gate from Laxmi Nagar. By the time I reached there with family, I lost the desire to celebrate new year because it was way too crowded," said Pritam Pal Mehra, who runs a garment store in Laxmi Nagar.

While Tripta Chari, a psychology student, said "It is good that the areas around the India Gate have no vehicular movement. I am sure the traffic has been affected but at least inside one can easily walk around."