The Northern Railway has announced a major change to the Ajmeri Gate side parking policy at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), aimed at easing congestion and improving vehicle movement in one of the busiest railway zones in the country. From June 25, 2025, all private and commercial vehicles entering this zone will be charged based on duration of stay — with only the first 8 minutes free for personal vehicles.
Why This Change Was Introduced
The decision comes after traffic pattern analyses showed significant congestion at the Ajmeri Gate entrance due to vehicles idling for extended periods. According to S.C. Jain, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Northern Railway, most drop-offs and pick-ups take no more than 2–3 minutes. However, in the absence of time-controlled enforcement, drivers tend to linger longer, blocking incoming traffic and causing bottlenecks.
This new system is part of a larger access-controlled traffic management model being implemented across major Indian railway terminals.
Key Highlights of the New Parking Fee System
For Private/Personal Vehicles
- 0–8 minutes: No charges
- 8–15 minutes: ₹50
- 15–30 minutes: ₹200
- Beyond 30 minutes: Towing + ₹1,000 fine
For Commercial Vehicles (Taxis, Autos, App-based Cabs)
- Entry fee upon arrival: ₹30
- 8–15 minutes: ₹50 additional
- 15–30 minutes: ₹200 additional
- Over 30 minutes: Towing + ₹1,000 fine
These rates will be applicable 24×7 and are enforced through a digital timer system and security personnel monitoring vehicle movement in real-time.
Who Will Be Impacted?
The rule will affect:
- Passengers arriving with family in personal cars
- Cab drivers and auto-rickshaw operators
- Travel operators using the station for group departures
- Vendors and logistic agents entering the zone for delivery
Railway officials recommend passengers and drivers limit their drop-off and pick-up activity to within 8 minutes to avoid charges. This will also help avoid long queues at peak hours and improve safety and ease of access around the station.
Smart Planning Can Save You Money
If you’re heading to the station:
- Plan your entry and exit in under 8 minutes to use the free window.
- Avoid idling or circling in the drop zone—this could push your duration beyond the limit.
- For pickups, coordinate arrival times closely with the passenger to reduce waiting.
It’s advisable to keep ₹250 in cash or a payment app ready, in case the duration exceeds the free limit.
Will This Really Help?
While the step may seem harsh to some, transportation experts believe it’s a necessary intervention to deal with NDLS’s growing traffic pressure. This model mirrors systems already in place at airports and international train stations, where “kiss and ride” time limits are strictly enforced to maintain traffic discipline.
The 8-minute grace window strikes a balance between public convenience and urban traffic management.
Next Phase: Expansion to Other Entry Points?
Sources within Northern Railway hinted that similar parking control systems could soon be introduced at other NDLS access points like Paharganj, and even at key stations like Hazrat Nizamuddin, Old Delhi (DLI), and Anand Vihar Terminal, as part of a phased infrastructure upgrade.
Local Reaction So Far
Some commuters welcomed the move, saying it will force better coordination and reduce chaotic entry points. However, cab unions and auto-rickshaw associations have expressed concerns over the additional burden of parking charges, especially if rides get delayed by platform changes or train delays.
The final days before implementation will likely see informational signage, awareness drives, and possibly digital updates through rail booking platforms.
FAQs: New Delhi Railway Station Parking Update
What is the new parking rule at Ajmeri Gate, NDLS?
Starting June 25, 2025, vehicles at Ajmeri Gate side of New Delhi Railway Station will have only 8 minutes of free access. After that, charges apply based on time spent.
How much do I pay if I stay longer than 8 minutes?
For personal vehicles: ₹50 for 8–15 minutes, ₹200 for 15–30 minutes, and ₹1,000 fine plus towing if over 30 minutes.
For commercial vehicles: ₹30 entry + additional charges as above.
Does the 8-minute window apply to taxis and autos as well?
Yes. Commercial vehicles must pay a base entry fee of ₹30 even within the 8 minutes.
Is the rule applicable 24×7?
Yes. The new rule applies at all hours, with round-the-clock enforcement.
Can I drop someone off for free?
Yes, as long as the drop-off is completed within 8 minutes.
Will this be implemented at other station gates?
For now, it’s only at Ajmeri Gate. Expansion to Paharganj and other stations is under consideration.