Ringing in New Year safely: Bengaluru cops to drop heavily drunk revellers home, set up rest centres

New Delhi: The countdown to New Year’s Eve celebrations have started. As the festivities get underway, the Karnataka government is initiating a novel measure aimed at people's safety.

Home Minister G Parameshwara announced on Wednesday that heavily drunk individuals will be safely dropped home amid the festivities during the New Year's Eve, ANI reported.

The move is aimed at preventing accidents and untoward incidents on streets bursting with revellers. Authorities want to ensure that the New Year begins on a safer, more responsible note for everyone.

Parameshwara added the government has designated 15 locations where people can rest until the effects of intoxication mellow down. Incidents of public intoxication are most common in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi, and Mangaluru, the minister said.

"We will not drop everyone off at home. Those who have drunk heavily, who are unable to walk, and who have reached a state of losing consciousness will be taken. We have set up resting places at 15 locations. They will be kept there until the intoxication wears off and then sent back," Parameshwara explained.

The drop-off facility will be provided by the Bengaluru Police on New Year's Eve.

The minister said that especially in the case of women, it can be difficult to assess their condition at that time. Some may be on the brink of losing consciousness, and unforeseen situations can take place. That is why we have put arrangements in place and taken precautionary measures, he pointed out. "We must ensure that others do not misuse the situation. For this reason, we have put all 30 districts on alert."

The minister underlined that instructions have been issued to bars and pubs, stressing that the state government was closely monitoring arrangements to prevent accidents in crowded zones.

He said that in some districts, such activity does not occur. But in places like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Belagavi, and Mangaluru, there will be activity. "People come out onto the streets to enjoy themselves. I have issued instructions to bars and pubs. In Bengaluru, a large number of people come from outside. Kannadigas are fewer in number; many come from outside. They drink and enjoy. At that time, when large crowds gather, there can be pushing and jostling. That is why we are paying extra attention."

Parameshwara flagged concerns over drink-and-drive cases and the threat posed by miscreants during celebrations. He pointed out that the government has directed police to wear body cameras and stay connected to the command centre at all times. "If more force is required, it will be deployed," the Karnataka minister added.

He pointed out that there will be no relaxation in registering drink-and-drive cases. "We have identified 160 locations, and while alcohol consumption up to a certain limit may be allowed, crossing that threshold makes driving unsafe. That is when accidents occur — people may lose their lives or endanger others. If we can strictly control the situation for just two days, lives can be saved.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar highlighted the security measures in Bengaluru ahead of the New Year celebrations. Taking to X, he said that more than 20,000 police personnel, supported by specialised women’s squads, have been deployed across the city to ensure public safety.

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In a post on X, he said: "Bengaluru is all set to welcome 2026 with safety and smooth celebrations. Over 20,000 police personnel, supported by specialised women squads, are on duty across the city, focusing on high-traffic areas and women's safety. Modern technology will monitor crowds and traffic to keep the city moving. Measures are in place to prevent unsafe driving and other risks."