As 2025 draws to a close, people across Odisha, including the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, are gearing up to welcome the New Year with zero-night celebrations, parties and festive gatherings. Hotels, bars and pubs have made elaborate arrangements for midnight celebrations, while markets and public spaces are buzzing with excitement ahead of the New Year countdown. However, amid the festive mood, the Commissionerate Police have rolled out stringent security and traffic management measures to ensure public safety and maintain law and order.
Authorities have made it clear that a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against violations. Extensive checking, blocking and patrolling will be carried out throughout the day and night, with CCTV surveillance keeping a close watch on major roads, intersections and crowd-prone areas across the twin cities.
Tight Security Arrangements in Bhubaneswar
In the state capital Bhubaneswar, police have put in place robust security measures to manage the expected surge in revellers and tourists. Barricading has been set up at 18 strategic locations across the city, and 18 platoons of additional police force have been deployed to strengthen ground-level enforcement. Watch teams will conduct checks at 29 major intersections, while Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) will remain on standby, particularly after midnight, to respond swiftly to any emergency situation.
Hotels, bars and pubs in Bhubaneswar have been permitted to host New Year programmes only till 12 midnight. Playing DJs or loud music in residential campuses, apartments and colonies has been strictly prohibited, and residents have been advised to adhere to prescribed noise and safety guidelines. The police have warned that any violation of these rules will invite strict action.
Special security arrangements have also been made at major tourist and religious destinations, including Nandankanan Zoological Park, Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Lingaraj Temple and the Khandagiri-Udayagiri hills, considering the anticipated influx of visitors. Women’s safety has been given top priority, with dedicated teams deployed for patrolling and assistance. The police have also announced strict enforcement against drunk driving, with erring vehicles liable to be seized on the spot.
Heightened Vigil in Cuttack
In Cuttack, similar arrangements have been put in place to ensure peaceful New Year celebrations. As many as 15 platoons of police personnel have been deployed across the city to maintain vigilance and regulate traffic movement. The police have appealed to citizens to celebrate responsibly, enjoy the festivities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
Twin City Police Commissioner S Dev Datta Singh personally reviewed checking arrangements at key locations, including Master Canteen Square, and issued a stern warning to potential offenders. He reiterated that indiscipline, public nuisance and reckless behaviour will not be tolerated. “Strict action will be taken against anyone who violates the law, disturbs public order or endangers themselves and others by consuming excessive liquor. Vehicles of violators will be seized,” Singh said.
Referring to enforcement efforts over the past year, the Police Commissioner highlighted significant action against drug trafficking. “Around 5 kg of brown sugar has been seized, which is among the highest seizures in the state. While victims are being rehabilitated, stringent action is being taken against drug peddlers,” he added.
Appeal to Celebrate Responsibly
With long queues expected at popular celebration spots and tourist locations, the police have urged citizens and visitors to follow traffic advisories, avoid overcrowding, refrain from drunk driving and adhere to safety norms. Authorities have emphasized that cooperation from the public is crucial to ensure that the New Year celebrations remain joyful, safe and incident-free across Odisha.
