New Year's Eve: Bengaluru bans whistling, facemasks in public places; 7500 CCTV cameras installed

As Bengaluru prepares to usher in the New Year 2025, the city police has banned whistling and masks in public places during New Year's Eve celebrations on December 31. Over 7,500 CCTV cameras have been installed across the city, with special picket arrangements and enhanced police deployment to ensure safety and prevent untoward incidents.

Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara has noted that the police have been conducting a drive against drugs for the past month and a half, particularly in light of the New Year and Christmas celebrations. Reassuring the public, he said, "Our primary objective is to prevent any untoward incidents. In Bengaluru, nearly 8.5 lakh people will celebrate the occasion, and there will be picketing in key areas like Brigade Road, Commercial Street, Koramangala, and Indira Nagar."

According to police, a total of 11,830 personnel—including senior officers, civil defence staff, and others—will maintain strict vigilance across the city, monitoring for potential rave parties and drug-related activities. The government has allowed New Year celebrations only until 1 a.m., and celebrations are to be held within the prescribed time limit. 

Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda assured that the force had made extensive security arrangements for areas where large gatherings are expected, including MG Road, Brigade Road junctions, Koramangala, Indiranagar 100 Feet Road, Orion Mall, JP Nagar in South Bengaluru, and Whitefield. Private parties on the city's outskirts, particularly in gated communities, will also be closely monitored.

(With inputs from PTI)