Gujarat Police Ramps Up Security for New Year Celebrations
As the countdown to the New Year begins, Gujarat is on high alert, with more than 8,000 police personnel deployed across the state to ensure public safety and uphold law and order during the festivities. The state’s law enforcement agencies have heightened surveillance, especially in South Gujarat districts like Valsad, Navsari, and Surat, where increased activity from party-goers and travellers crossing borders to Union Territories like Daman and Diu is expected. As large numbers of people head to neighbouring regions to celebrate with alcohol, police are working tirelessly to monitor movements, deter criminal behaviour, and enforce the state’s prohibition laws.
The police are taking a multi-pronged approach to curb any potential issues, from drunk driving to disturbances caused by loud parties. In Ahmedabad, the police have set up an extensive security infrastructure, deploying 8,139 officers, including special teams such as quick response units and breathalyser-equipped personnel. A dedicated surveillance setup with 145 check posts, body-cam-equipped officers, and bomb detection squads is ready to respond to emergencies swiftly. The Ahmedabad Police has also introduced strict regulations for event organisers, emphasizing responsible celebrations, especially to prevent the consumption of alcohol or intoxicants during public events. Those found violating these rules will face severe legal repercussions, as organisers are held accountable for any misconduct or unruly behaviour at their events.
In the border districts of South Gujarat, the primary concern revolves around drunk driving, as many partygoers return from Union Territories where alcohol is sold. Valsad, in particular, has seen a surge in cases related to drink-driving violations in past years, leading authorities to enhance monitoring at 40 strategic checkpoints. The district police have been running special drives since 2018, leading to a significant increase in arrests for driving under the influence. In 2023, the number of arrests in Valsad dropped slightly to 916 from 1,400 in 2022, indicating a trend toward stricter enforcement, but still highlighting the ongoing challenge of curbing this hazardous behaviour.
Meanwhile, Surat and Navsari districts have adopted advanced surveillance techniques, such as drone surveillance, to monitor farmhouses and secluded celebration spots. Navsari, with its strong commitment to curbing crime during the festive season, has arrested over 400 individuals in recent days as part of a crackdown on illicit activities. The police have also ensured that all farmhouse and hotel owners are briefed on maintaining law and order and preventing any illegal actions on their premises.
Sustainability and Safety in Policing
While safety remains the primary concern during these large-scale operations, there is also a sustainability angle to the intensified security measures. The focus on reducing alcohol-related incidents aligns with broader environmental and social goals. Responsible policing during New Year celebrations helps foster a safer, more sustainable community by ensuring that public spaces are not disrupted, and that individuals are discouraged from engaging in reckless behaviour. Additionally, the use of technology for surveillance, such as drones and body cameras, reduces the need for excessive manual checks and contributes to a greener, more efficient approach to law enforcement. These efforts show that sustainability in policing not only addresses the immediate concerns of safety but also takes into account the long-term well-being of the community, including preserving public health and reducing pollution caused by unchecked celebrations.
With the deployment of over 8,000 police personnel and the introduction of stringent security measures across Gujarat, the state is taking all possible precautions to ensure a safe and festive New Year. These measures reflect the growing need for vigilant policing, especially in urban areas and districts that serve as transit hubs for celebrants. As Gujarat steps up its security presence, both law enforcement and residents are contributing to a safer, more responsible New Year celebration. These efforts will not only ensure safety but will also pave the way for sustainable, community-focused policing in future public events.
