Bhubaneswar: As lakhs of revellers prepare to welcome 2026 with “Zero Night” parties across the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, the Commissionerate Police has rolled out comprehensive security measures and stringent restrictions to ensure public safety, maintain law and order, and curb traffic violations during the festivities on December 31.
Police stations have been directed to map out all hotels, clubs, pubs, and other venues hosting New Year events. Officers are required to gather detailed information on event timings, venue capacities, expected attendee numbers, and required permissions. The IICs will personally verify these details to prevent overcrowding and potential mishaps, a police release said.
Intensive patrolling will be carried out around celebration venues, connecting roads, and sensitive areas, including parks, restaurants, colleges, and basti localities. Officers have been tasked to prioritise the safety of women and children.
Checking points will be secured with iron barricades to protect the police personnel as they conduct rigorous vehicle inspections, and implement roadblocks aimed at preventing drunken driving.
The Commissionerate Police has also banned roadside celebrations, temporary stages, and music systems on public roads. There will be no music beyond midnight and police posts on high alert to avert disputes involving bouncers, organisers, parking issues, or altercations among attendees.
Zone-specific monitoring will be led by Additional Deputy Commissioners of Police (ADCPs): Sunaram Lembrem for Zones 1 and 2, Sanjay Kumar Mohapatra for Zone 3, Arati Giri for Zone 4, and Subrat Kumar for Zones 5 and 6. Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and IICs will supervise subdivisions and bear direct responsibility for compliance.
The Commissionerate Police has underscored accountability, warning of severe repercussions for any deviations or lapses. These protocols are build on ongoing preparations for ‘Mission Suraksha 2026’, including intensified anti-drunk driving campaigns and multi-layered security across Odisha, to guarantee orderly and incident-free celebrations.
