Delhi Latest News Today on August 13th, 2026: Red Fort Traffic, Master Plan & New B&B Law

Delhi, August 13: Delhi is navigating a busy day with significant traffic advisories in place for Independence Day rehearsals around the Red Fort. The Delhi Assembly passed a crucial bill to repeal the old bed-and-breakfast law, while the Delhi Development Authority cleared the ambitious Master Plan for Delhi-2047. These developments mark a day of legislative action and urban planning in the capital.

Top Stories

Traffic Advisory Issued for Independence Day Rehearsal at Red Fort Today

Delhi Traffic Police issued an advisory on August 12, 2026, detailing road closures and traffic diversions around Red Fort for the Independence Day full-dress rehearsal taking place on August 13, 2026. Commuters in central and north Delhi are advised to plan their journeys accordingly. Security measures have been heightened across the city ahead of Independence Day, including displaying posters of wanted terrorists in public places. Delhi Weather Forecast & Update for Today, Thursday, 13 August 2026: Clear Skies With High Humidity and Intermittent Drizzle, High of 34°C.

Delhi Assembly Repeals Two-Decade-Old Bed & Breakfast Law

The Delhi Assembly passed a Bill on August 12, 2026, to repeal the two-decade-old law governing bed-and-breakfast facilities, following a fatal fire incident. A new 'Delhi Bed & Breakfast Policy, 2026' has been proposed, featuring a self-certification and self-renewal framework to streamline operations.

DDA Clears Master Plan for Delhi-2047, Envisioning Slum-Free City

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) cleared the Master Plan for Delhi-2047 on August 12, 2026. This ambitious plan proposes the redevelopment of smaller plots, eases land pooling norms, and aims to balance rapid urban growth with greener development. It also envisions a slum-free city with enhanced and safer nightlife options. Delhi-NCR Rains: Heavy Showers Cause Waterlogging and Traffic Jams Amid IMD's Red Alert (Videos).

Civic & Urban Development

Sarojini Nagar Market Demolition Sparks Controversy

A late-night demolition drive in Delhi's Sarojini Nagar market on May 17, 2026, removed unauthorized shops and stalls, with traders alleging no prior notice. Officials claimed the structures were illegal, but shopkeepers called it an act of injustice. This comes as the Delhi LG has reportedly implemented a zero-tolerance policy on encroachment.

Potholes Continue to Hamper Delhi's Commute and Trade

Potholes are reportedly continuing to impede Delhi's traffic and trade, affecting daily commuting and commercial activities across the city. This ongoing issue highlights persistent challenges in urban infrastructure, as reported on August 12, 2026.

Demand for Public Toilets Intensifies Across Delhi

There is a growing and intensified demand for more public toilets across Delhi, as reported on August 12, 2026. This highlights a critical need for improved public sanitation facilities and infrastructure to cater to the city's large population.

Over 40 Lakh Trees Planted in Delhi with Digital Monitoring Plan

Delhi has successfully planted 40.49 lakh saplings, with plans for digital monitoring to ensure their growth and track the city's expanding green cover. This initiative, reported on August 12, 2026, is part of ongoing efforts to enhance environmental sustainability in the capital.

Crime & Safety

Interstate Spa Trafficking Racket Busted, 10 Victims Rescued

Delhi Police busted an interstate human-trafficking syndicate on August 12, 2026, successfully rescuing 10 victims from Delhi, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. The syndicate allegedly lured vulnerable women and girls through social media with promises of lucrative jobs at spa centres.

Banned Chinese Manjha Seized, Three Arrested in West Delhi

Delhi Police apprehended three men in west Delhi on August 12, 2026, after recovering 1,398 reels of banned Chinese manjha from their car. This significant seizure has reportedly widened the probe into the supply chain behind the prohibited kite string trade, which poses a danger to people and birds.

Woman Found Deceased Inside Closed Mall in Rajouri Garden

A 25-year-old woman was found deceased inside a closed mall in Delhi's Rajouri Garden on August 12, 2026. Police reportedly recovered a purported suicide note from the scene and are investigating the case from all angles to determine the circumstances of her death.

Protected Birds Seized from Pet Shops Near Jama Masjid

Authorities seized 431 protected birds among a total of 863 species from five pet shops near Delhi's Jama Masjid on August 12, 2026. This action highlights ongoing efforts against illegal wildlife trade in the capital, aiming to curb the illicit trafficking of protected species.

Woman and Lover Allegedly Murder Husband in Delhi

A 45-year-old woman, Nazia, along with her younger lover, allegedly murdered her husband using sleeping pills, electric shocks, and a stick, as reported on August 12, 2026. The incident has led to a police investigation into the details of the alleged crime.

Man Caught Recording Woman on Delhi Metro, Video Deleted

A man was caught recording a woman inside the Delhi Metro on August 12, 2026. Upon being confronted, he reportedly deleted the video. The incident was addressed, highlighting concerns about privacy and safety within public transport.

Politics & Governance

AAP Protests Alleged Rice 'Scam' in Delhi Assembly

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) staged a protest in the Delhi Assembly against an alleged 'rice scam' during the monsoon session on August 12, 2026. The demonstration led to eight MLAs being marshalled out of the House, highlighting political contention within the capital's legislative body.

Delhi High Court Hears Chief Minister Kejriwal's Bail Plea

The Delhi High Court heard Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's bail plea on August 12, 2026. This hearing represents a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings involving the Chief Minister, with further updates anticipated as the case progresses.

Delhi's Economic Growth Lags National Pace, Report Reveals

A report presented in the Delhi Assembly on August 12, 2026, indicated that Delhi's economy grew in 2024-25 but at a slower pace than the national economy. The capital's share in the national GDP reportedly decreased from 4% in 2015-16 to 3.67% in 2024-25, signaling a need for economic re-evaluation.

Abhijeet Deepke Vows Return to Jantar Mantar Protests

Abhijeet Deepke stated on August 12, 2026, that protesters would soon return to Jantar Mantar, citing difficulties in securing a meeting place in Delhi and attributing blame to the BJP. This indicates potential renewed political demonstrations in the capital.

Business & Economy

Indian Trade Festival Kicks Off in Delhi to Promote 'Local to Global'

The Indian Trade Festival has commenced in Delhi, aiming to promote business from 'Local to Global', as reported on August 12, 2026. This initiative seeks to foster economic growth and expand trade opportunities for local businesses by connecting them with broader markets.

Transport & Travel

SpiceJet Delhi-Pune Flight Experiences AC Malfunction

Passengers on a SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Pune experienced significant distress on August 12, 2026, due to an air conditioning malfunction. The incident reportedly led to breathing difficulties for many and a pregnant woman falling ill, raising concerns about passenger comfort and safety.

Lost and Found Items Frequent on Delhi Metro

The Delhi Metro regularly sees passengers leaving behind belongings, highlighting a trend of distracted commuters, as reported on August 12, 2026. This common occurrence underscores the need for passengers to remain vigilant with their personal items while using the public transport system.

Train Cancellations Announced for October Signalling Work

Several trains on the Rewari, Hisar, and Sirsa routes will be cancelled on October 6-7, 2026, due to automatic signalling work in Delhi. This planned maintenance will impact travel to and from Haryana, and passengers are advised to check schedules in advance.

Health

Experts Advocate for Declaring Cancer a Notified Disease in Delhi

Experts in Delhi have voiced their support for declaring cancer a notified disease, a move that could significantly enhance public health surveillance and intervention strategies. This initiative, reported on August 12, 2026, aims to improve data collection and resource allocation for cancer care.

Weather & Outlook

Partly cloudy skies with light drizzle expected across Delhi, high near 34°C

Delhi is experiencing partly cloudy conditions with a current temperature of 28.3°C. The forecast for today, August 13th, 2026, predicts light drizzle and temperatures ranging from 28°C to 34°C. Residents should prepare for humid conditions and carry umbrellas.

Weather: Partly cloudy — 28.3°C. Today: Light drizzle, 28°C – 34°C.

Delhi Weather Live Tracker Map on Windy

As Delhi moves through a day marked by significant urban planning decisions and heightened security, residents are advised to stay informed on traffic changes and local developments. The capital's ongoing efforts in infrastructure, public safety, and economic promotion will continue to shape its future trajectory.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 13, 2026 07:28 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).