Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara announced on Thursday that New Year celebrations across the state, including in the capital Bengaluru, concluded peacefully without any significant untoward incidents.
Massive Turnout, Unprecedented Security
An estimated 7 to 8 lakh people participated in the festivities within Bengaluru city. To ensure safety and order, the state government deployed a massive force of approximately 20,000 police personnel across the city. Parameshwara highlighted that this was the highest-ever police deployment for New Year celebrations in the city's history.
The minister confirmed that there were no reports of major incidents, significant traffic gridlocks, or serious accidents linked to the celebrations, marking the event as a success for law enforcement and civic administration.
Government's Focus on Mobility and Infrastructure
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, addressing the media, stated that mobility would be a major focus for the government in the coming year. He revealed that various initiatives are planned to improve transportation and ease congestion.
Shivakumar claimed that 2025 had been a successful year for the state, asserting that such "historic programmes and projects had likely never been implemented in the city" during his 36-year tenure as a legislator. He expressed confidence that the government had delivered on its promises and laid a robust foundation for further transformation in 2026.
Praise and Progress on Key Projects
The Deputy CM mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a visit to Bengaluru to inaugurate a Metro project, had praised the city and the ongoing development works. Shivakumar also pointed out that the state was reshaping Bengaluru in a manner that would bring pride to India, despite claiming a lack of central funds for state projects.
Addressing a perennial concern, Shivakumar spoke about resolving traffic bottlenecks. He stated that pending works had finally been taken up and expressed optimism. "There will be no more blockages, and the Hebbal flyover has resolved a long-standing problem," he said, highlighting a key achievement in the city's infrastructure.
The government's statements paint a picture of a well-managed festive period followed by an ambitious agenda focused on urban mobility and continued development for Karnataka's capital in the new year.
