Chandigarh: With New Year’s Eve festivities approaching, Chandigarh Police has stepped up security arrangements across the city, announcing strict crowd control and traffic measures to ensure public safety. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kanwardeep Kaur reviewed the preparedness on Tuesday and issued detailed instructions to officers deployed on the ground.
As part of the plan, ten key stretches and pockets of the city will be designated as ‘No Vehicle Zones’ during peak celebration hours. These restrictions will remain in force from 9:30 pm until 2:00 am. Areas falling under the vehicle-free zone include the road in front of Leisure Valley in Sector 10, the inner market road of Sector 11, internal roads of Sectors 17 and 22, the stretch from Aroma Light Point to Sector 22 Dispensary Chowk, and the Elante Mall area in Industrial Area Phase-I along with its surrounding roads.
Residents living within these restricted zones have been advised to carry valid identity cards or proof of residence if they need to travel during the restricted hours, police officials said.
To manage crowds and prevent untoward incidents, around 1,100 police personnel will be deployed across Chandigarh on New Year’s Eve. The security setup will include 70 special checkpoints (nakas) at strategic locations, with a strong focus on nightlife hubs. Senior officers, including 17 DSPs and inspectors, will remain on active patrol to monitor law and order throughout the night.
Police have also announced strict checking and barricading outside clubs, bars, and restaurants, where large gatherings are expected. Drunk driving checks and vehicle inspections will be intensified, officials added.
Appealing to the public, SSP Kanwardeep Kaur urged residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly. “People are requested to welcome the New Year in a peaceful manner and cooperate with the police so that law and order is maintained across the city,” she said.
Authorities have advised commuters to plan their travel in advance and follow police instructions as Chandigarh prepares for large crowds ushering in the New Year.