Kannur: Police have stepped up security across Kerala as part of New Year celebrations in the state. As of Wednesday, surveillance has been intensified at beaches, parks and other tourist spots where people are expected to gather, and additional personnel will be deployed wherever required. Action will be taken against drunk driving and dangerous stunts performed with vehicles.

Police have issued special guidelines to hotels hosting DJ parties. More officers will be deployed along the district coastline, and instructions have been issued to prevent sea bathing and risky stunts by two-wheelers on beaches. Restrictions will also be enforced on celebrations using loudspeakers after 10 pm. Organisers of beach festivals have been given specific guidelines.

Security measures in Kannur

In Kannur, dditional police deployment has been arranged at Payyambalam, Chal Beach, Muzhappilangad, Choottad Beach and Thalai. Round-the-clock vehicle patrolling will be carried out across the district.

Kannur City Police Commissioner P Nidhinraj said strict action would be taken if celebrations go beyond permissible limits. He urged the public to exercise caution and avoid activities that could lead to accidents

Traffic towards Kozhikode Beach be regulated

In Kozhikode, police surveillance has been stepped up at the beach, Bhatt Road, Pulimuttu, malls, bar hotels, bus stands, and other public spaces, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Arun K Pavithran. An additional SP and seven ACPs will also be deployed.

Those celebrating the new year should get prior permission from the concerned police station.

Traffic restrictions will be imposed after 2.30 pm on Wednesday on vehicles plying from Francis Road, CH flyover, PT Usha Road, Christian College, Panicker Road, and Vengali.

Those who come to the beach after 5 pm are instructed to park their vehicles in parking grounds away from the premises. Authorities have asked people to vacate the beach by 1 am on Thursday.

Excise department also on alert

The Excise Department has drawn up various measures to curb the use of intoxicants during the festivities. Special squads have been deployed to ensure that drug use and illegal sale of liquor do not take place. Inter-state buses and other passenger vehicles will be checked.

Strike forces, a district-level control room and a dedicated patrol team for vehicle inspections on highways will also be in operation. Joint inspections will be carried out with the police, forest and revenue departments if required.