In anticipation of New Year's Eve celebrations, the police forces in Mohali and Panchkula have rolled out extensive and stringent security measures across both districts. The focus is squarely on preventing law-and-order situations in crowded and vulnerable areas.
Mohali's Proactive Security Blueprint
SSP Harmandeep Singh Hans has issued directives for a high-alert status throughout the night of December 31. All Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), Station House Officers (SHOs), and police station in-charges have been instructed to remain vigilant and stationed on the roads.
A key decision involves the complete closure of the Phase 3B2 market. Police officials noted that this area, along with other popular markets, frequently witnesses unruly behaviour, drunken brawls, and traffic chaos even on ordinary days, making it a prime concern for New Year's Eve. "We are not taking any chances," stated SSP Hans. "Over the past four days, we cleared Phase 3B2 market of revellers. On New Year's Eve, the market will be cordoned off completely, and no miscreant will be allowed to enter and create a nuisance."
Deployment and Patrol Strategies
The security plan includes several layered approaches:
- Area-Wise Teams: Special teams have been constituted for continuous patrolling, nakabandi (checkpoints), and crowd control.
- Enhanced Presence: Additional police force has been deployed at busy markets, malls, party zones, hotels, clubs, and public gathering points.
- Strategic Pickets: Police pickets have been established at strategic locations to monitor movement.
- Mobile Vigilance: PCR (Police Control Room) and ERV (Emergency Response Vehicle) vehicles will conduct non-stop patrolling, with special attention to residential areas and vulnerable pockets.
Traffic Regulation and Drunk Driving Checks
The traffic police will have a significant role, with personnel deployed at all major intersections to regulate vehicular movement. In a bid to curb accidents, surprise checking and breathalyser tests will be conducted at multiple locations across the district to identify and penalize drunk drivers.
Senior officers will personally supervise the arrangements on the ground. The police control room will operate 24/7 to ensure a swift response to any distress calls. The Mohali Police have appealed to residents to celebrate responsibly, adhere to traffic rules, and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure a safe and peaceful transition into the New Year.
Panchkula's Parallel Preparations
Mirroring Mohali's efforts, Panchkula police are also on high alert. More than 500 police personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order, regulate traffic, and respond to any untoward incidents.
DCP Srishti Gupta confirmed that senior officers, including ACPs, SHOs, crime branch officials, and police post in-charges, will remain vigilant and continuously monitor their assigned areas. The city's security infrastructure includes:
- 48 police nakas at key locations.
- 29 rider teams, 12 PCR vehicles, and 19 ERVs on continuous patrol.
Considering the expected rush of devotees, special security arrangements have been put in place at major religious sites like the Mata Mansa Devi Temple and Kali Mata Temple in Kalka. Additional police force has been assigned for crowd management to facilitate the smooth and safe movement of pilgrims.
The coordinated efforts by the Tricity police departments underscore a comprehensive strategy aimed at deterring mischief and ensuring that New Year's Eve celebrations are conducted in a secure and orderly manner for all citizens.
