With a focus on security, crowd control, and responsible celebrations, the guidelines mandate event permissions, CCTV surveillance, and noise regulations from December 31, 2024, to January 1, 2025.
Visakhapatnam
As the city gears up to welcome the New Year, the Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner, Dr. Shankhabrata Bagchi, has issued a set of stringent guidelines on Thursday to ensure the safety and security of citizens. These guidelines, effective from December 31, 2024, to January 1, 2025, aim to minimize potential risks and ensure a peaceful and responsible celebration.
Dr. Bagchi emphasized that the primary goal of these guidelines is to ensure that festivities are conducted in an orderly and secure manner. “Our primary focus is to ensure that the New Year’s Eve celebrations are conducted peacefully and responsibly,” he stated.
Under the new rules, all establishments planning to host events that extend beyond midnight are required to seek prior permission from the Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner’s office. This permission is crucial for police to effectively monitor and regulate events, ensuring that they do not pose safety risks. In addition to obtaining permission, event organizers are mandated to install CCTV cameras at all entry and exit points, as well as in parking areas, to enhance security surveillance. This is aimed at ensuring that every aspect of the event is closely monitored. A strong police presence will also be deployed at major city junctions to assist citizens, manage traffic, and maintain law and order.
The guidelines further emphasize the importance of maintaining robust security measures at event venues. Organizers are instructed to provide adequate security personnel for crowd control, traffic management, and supervision at entry points. Multiple entry and exit points are required to prevent overcrowding and ensure smooth and safe movement of attendees.
In a bid to reduce disturbances and potential hazards, the guidelines set clear regulations regarding noise pollution, alcohol consumption, and ticket sales. Noise levels during events must not exceed 45 decibels, ensuring a quieter and more controlled environment for all. Alcohol consumption must strictly follow the timings established by the Excise Department, and organizers are prohibited from overselling tickets beyond the venue’s official capacity to avoid dangerous overcrowding.
Additionally, the Visakhapatnam Police have deployed ‘SHE-Teams’ across key locations to offer immediate support to women in distress or facing issues during the celebrations. Citizens are also urged to be cautious with their valuables in crowded areas to avoid thefts or accidents.
