Zero tolerance on Zero Night in Bhubaneswar! Police Commissioner warns of strict action

Bhubaneswar will remain under a strict security cover ahead of New Year celebrations, with the Commissionerate Police enforcing a ‘zero-tolerance’ policy against any law violations during Zero Night. The entire city will be kept under close CCTV surveillance to ensure public safety and maintain order.

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Issuing an advisory to city residents, the Twin City Police Commissioner Suresh Dev Datta Singh urged people to celebrate responsibly. He made it clear that enjoyment is permitted, but criminal activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances. “People may celebrate, but cannot commit crimes,” the Commissioner cautioned.

As per official guidelines, police checkpoints will be set up at 18 strategic locations across the Capital City. Eighteen platoons of additional police force will be deployed, while watch teams will conduct checks at 29 major intersections. After midnight, Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will remain on alert to handle any untoward situation.

Hotels, bars and pubs have been allowed to organise programmes only till 12.00 midnight. Residents planning Zero Night celebrations within apartments or residential colonies must strictly follow prescribed norms, and playing DJ music has been completely prohibited.

Special security arrangements will also be put in place at major tourist destinations, including Nandankanan Zoo, Dhauli Hill, Lingaraj Temple and Khandagiri-Udayagiri. Women’s safety will be prioritised, and strict action, including seizure of vehicles, will be taken against drunk driving offenders, the Police Commissioner Singh warned.

“Intensive and continuous patrolling shall be ensured in and around celebration venues, connecting roads, and sensitive areas, including parks, restaurants, colleges, slum areas, and other isolated locations. Special attention shall be given to the safety and free movement of women and children,” a notification issued by the Commissionerate Police read.

“Effective MV (motor vehicle) checking and strategic road blocking shall be conducted to prevent drunken driving, traffic violations, and movement of anti-social elements. Iron barricades shall be used at the checking points to prevent accidental injuries to police personnel,” the official notification mentioned.