As Bengaluru prepares to welcome the new year, the city is taking heightened security precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all. In line with safety measures, Bengaluru Police have imposed a ban on masks and whistling in public places during New Year’s Eve celebrations. This initiative comes as the city braces for a massive turnout, with the MG Road area expected to host over a lakh of revelers as the clock strikes midnight.
To bolster security, more than 2,000 police personnel will be deployed across the city, especially in high-traffic areas such as MG Road, Brigade Road, Church Street, Indiranagar, HSR Layout, and Koramangala. In Koramangala, the police presence will be further strengthened with the addition of over 1,000 personnel. The authorities are leaving no stone unturned, with a mini control room established to monitor CCTV footage, and 150 cameras strategically placed in sensitive areas.
The city has also implemented traffic restrictions for the night, with all flyovers remaining closed for safety reasons. However, public transportation will remain operational: Bengaluru Metro and bus services from MG Road will run until 2 a.m. to accommodate those heading home after the festivities. The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) has announced a Rs 500 fine for anyone found harassing women, with offenders being handed over to the police. To further ensure safety, security personnel will be stationed in every metro coach, and special vigilance will be maintained by the Rani Chennamma Special Squad, who will be on duty to protect women. Twelve safety islands have been set up across the city to provide safe spaces for women, and watchtowers have been installed for additional surveillance.
Additionally, healthcare facilities will be available to the public during the celebrations, and police will be closely monitoring the crowds. Last year, Bengaluru’s traffic police caught around 330 motorists for driving under the influence on New Year’s Eve, continuing their push for safe driving during the festivities.
The move to impose such stringent measures comes after a traumatic incident in 2017, when several women were reportedly molested and harassed by a large crowd on MG Road. The incident, which led to public outrage, prompted the city authorities to take more robust actions to ensure the safety of women and the general public during large-scale celebrations. Despite previous claims that there were enough police personnel on duty, many women described the situation as chaotic, with some recalling it as “almost a stampede.”
With improved security and infrastructure in place, authorities are hoping to prevent any such incidents and create a safer environment for all revelers in Bengaluru. As the city welcomes 2025, police and officials are hopeful that the New Year celebrations will proceed without incident, ensuring a festive yet safe experience for all.
Sources By Agencies