Bengaluru: In anticipation of large-scale New Year celebrations, the Karnataka government has ramped up security measures across Bengaluru to ensure peaceful festivities. The state government is expecting between seven to eight lakh people to gather in the city’s streets on New Year’s Eve.

According to reports, Karnataka's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, announced that the government has implemented various measures to control traffic and manage crowds in key areas of the city. He added that actions would be taken to ensure the safety of the public, particularly women, during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

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In preparation for the celebrations, Home Minister Parameshwara reportedly held a meeting with all Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) in Bengaluru. The meeting also included Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG & IGP) Alok Mohan and Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda. During the meeting, the Home Minister made it clear that any security lapses would be the responsibility of the police officials.

Parameshwara emphasized that the government has given top priority to ensuring a safe environment for the public. "The government has already declared war on drugs," he added, reiterating that steps have been taken to address security concerns and facilitate smooth celebrations.

To ensure ease of travel for party-goers, the government has arranged for additional taxi services on December 31. Additionally, there are discussions underway to extend the operating hours of the Namma Metro. The Home Minister also instructed the police to seek assistance from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the Fire Force, and the Bangalore Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRCL) to ensure proper coordination.

The city police have decided to implement traffic measures similar to those used in previous years. To curb drunk driving, police will increase checkpoints, and strict action will be taken against violators.

Ahead of the celebrations, the Bengaluru Traffic Police have launched a special inspection campaign. In the past week alone, approximately 60,000 vehicles were subjected to police checks, resulting in 769 licenses being revoked. More than 200 drivers were fined for reckless driving. Traffic authorities have announced that the checks will continue until the first week of January.

The increased security measures come as Bengaluru prepares for a high turnout of revellers on New Year’s Eve, with authorities aiming to strike a balance between safety and celebration. (With inputs from Agencies)