As the state prepares to bid farewell to 2025 and welcome New Year 2026, authorities have shifted into high gear to ensure public safety. In a major update for travelers, the Chikkaballapur district administration has announced a temporary ban on entry to the popular hilltop destination, Nandi Hills, to prevent overcrowding and road accidents.
Nandi Hills Entry Restrictions
Chikkaballapur SP Kushal Choksi confirmed that public entry to Nandi Hills will be restricted from the afternoon of December 31, 2025, to the afternoon of January 1, 2026.
- Reason for Ban: The measure is aimed at preventing drunk driving incidents and potential accidents on the steep, narrow curves of the hill during the festive rush.
- Resort Vigil: Police are maintaining a strict vigil on hotels, homestays, and resorts surrounding the hills. Any "indecent behavior" or violation of the law under the guise of celebration will lead to immediate criminal cases.
High Alert at Isha Foundation (Adiyogi)
With thousands of devotees expected to visit the Isha Foundation (Adiyogi) in Chikkaballapur, massive police "bandobast" has been deployed. Visitors are advised to follow designated parking and queue systems to ensure a peaceful start to the year.
Bengaluru City: Drone Surveillance and Commissioner’s Patrol
In the capital city, Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh personally inspected security arrangements by riding a bike through key areas, including Koramangala, to review ground-level preparedness.
- Drones: For the first time, high-definition drone cameras will be used to monitor crowd density and movement in real-time across major junctions.
- Deadlines: All bars, restaurants, and commercial establishments must strictly adhere to the government-mandated closing times.
New Rules for Paying Guests (PGs)
Recognizing that a large portion of Bengaluru's youth resides in PGs, the police department has issued a specific set of guidelines for PG owners and residents:
- No Street Celebrations: Cutting cakes or holding loud parties on the roads in front of PGs is strictly prohibited.
- Access Control: Men are not allowed to enter female-only PGs for "wishing" purposes or celebrations.
- Owner Responsibility: In the event of any untoward incident or nuisance, the PG owner will be held directly responsible and may face legal action.
The state police department has appealed to the public to cooperate with the guidelines to ensure that the arrival of 2026 is safe, peaceful, and accident-free.
