Kolkata Police is gearing up for a massive security operation on New Year's Eve, deploying nearly double the number of personnel compared to Christmas Day. With expectations of larger and potentially rowdier crowds, the force is leaving nothing to chance to ensure a safe and orderly celebration across the city.
Massive Police Presence Across Key Hotspots
The security blueprint involves deploying around 6,500 police personnel in two strategic batches throughout the day. The main and most significant deployment will occur around 4 pm. A substantial focus will be on the popular celebration corridor between Park Street and the Alipore zoo–Alipore Jail Museum area, where a total of 4,000 cops will be stationed. Out of this, a staggering 2,500 officers will be dedicated solely to managing the crowds on Park Street.
Additional security layers include 1,300 uniformed personnel at other identified hotspots and special nakas (checkpoints) across Kolkata. The operation will be bolstered by specialized teams from the detective department, the Kolkata Police Special Task Force (KP STF), and the Special Branch, who will be present citywide.
Technology and Specialized Teams on High Alert
Mirroring the Christmas Day arrangements, drones will be deployed for aerial surveillance over the Park Street and Alipore zoo areas to monitor crowd movement and density. As evening falls, the watch section of the detective department, the all-women Winners Team, and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will be strategically positioned around Park Street to swiftly prevent and intercept any illegal activities.
The command structure for Central Kolkata will be robust, with 18 IPS officers overseeing operations. The main celebration zone has been divided into multiple sectors, each with watchtowers for better coordination. Police assistance booths will also be set up to aid revellers.
Proactive Measures Against Nuisance and Danger
Anticipating heightened festivities, a senior Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) stated, "The crowd will be larger than Christmas. Rowdiness on this day is usually higher so our response has to be adequate." Based on specific security intelligence, plain-clothes personnel will be mingling within the crowds as part of special teams. Dedicated police teams will also focus on the safety of women, the elderly, and children.
In a bid to curb public nuisance, Lalbazar (Police Headquarters) has issued strict directives:
- All police stations must form teams to ensure firecrackers are not burst beyond the court-stipulated time limit.
- A special crackdown has been ordered against the use of DJ systems above permissible sound limits at local events.
- Police will not allow anyone to loiter and block entrances to eateries and restaurants.
A major challenge identified by the police is combating drink driving. Officers indicated that special raids are likely to be conducted daily in the lead-up to and on New Year's Eve to deter this dangerous practice. This comprehensive plan underscores the police department's commitment to ensuring that Kolkata rings in the New Year with joy, but within the bounds of law and safety.
