With the countdown for New Year's Eve celebrations underway, the Bengaluru City Police have implemented elaborate and multi-faceted security measures across the city, particularly in popular celebration hotspots like MG Road, Brigade Road, Koramangala, and Indiranagar. The goal is to ensure a safe, incident-free, and enjoyable transition into the New Year 2026.
Enhanced Security and High-Tech Surveillance
The Bengaluru Police Commissioner has announced the deployment of a significant force, including thousands of personnel from the Law and Order and Traffic divisions, alongside specialized units.
- Massive Deployment: Over 11,000 police personnel will be deployed across the city to manage the expected large crowds.
- Tech-Driven Monitoring: The police are leveraging technology, deploying drones for aerial surveillance and using heat-map technology to monitor crowd density in real-time, especially in the Central Business District (CBD).
- Safety Infrastructure: Key locations feature the setup of watch towers, police kiosks, and women safety islands, staffed by women police officers, to ensure the protection of vulnerable groups.
- Anti-Drug Focus: Intensive anti-drug checks and enforcement drives are being conducted, with a focus on tracing drugs from consumers back to peddlers.
Stricter Guidelines and Traffic Restrictions
To maintain order and prevent untoward incidents, especially in areas notorious for large gatherings, the police have imposed stringent guidelines and traffic controls.
| Hotspot Area | Restriction | Enforcement Details |
| MG Road & Brigade Road | Vehicular Restriction | Movement of all vehicles will be prohibited starting from 8:00 PM on December 31 until the early hours of January 1. |
| Brigade Road | Pedestrian Movement | A one-way pedestrian system is enforced to prevent overcrowding and stampede-like situations. Pedestrians can walk from the MG Road junction towards Opera Junction but not the opposite way. |
| Flyovers | Closure | All major flyovers across the city (except the one leading to KIA Airport) will be closed from 11:00 PM on December 31 until 6:00 AM on January 1 to prevent accidents and stunts. |
| General | Celebration Curfew | Bars, pubs, and restaurants have been instructed to conclude all celebrations and operations by 1:00 AM on January 1. |
| General | Drunk Driving | A zero-tolerance policy against drunk driving and reckless behaviour, such as street racing or 'wheeling', is in effect, with numerous checkposts established. |
Public Advisory: Safety First
The police have strongly advised citizens to prioritize safety by using public transport (BMTC and Metro services will have extended operating hours) and avoiding reckless behaviour. Furthermore, they have urged people not to wear full-face masks or use whistles in crowded areas, as these measures help police maintain easy identification and overall public safety.
The thorough preparations underscore the city's commitment to hosting a vibrant yet secure New Year's Eve celebration
