Berhampur: Security was tightened in silk city on New Year’s Eve, while hotels, clubs and other venues organised cultural functions on ‘zero night’. Police personnel were also deployed in Gopalpur and Sonepur beach towns, where thousands are expected to gather to celebrate New Year on Wednesday.
“We have deployed adequate forces in the city. Besides, mobile patrolling was also conducted to check any untoward incident,” said Berhampur SP Saravana Vivek M.He said New Year parties in hotels, bars, restaurants and beaches would be under close scrutiny.
At least a platoon of forces was deployed in Gopalpur and Sonepur. Additionally, lifeguards were also deployed in the beaches. The SP said a special drive was launched to crack down on drunk driving and those creating nuisance on roads.
“Strict action will be taken against drunk driving, public disorder, harassment of women, illegal sale of liquor and other drug-related offences,” he said.
Different hostels and clubs were decorated with lights and invited artists for the cultural programmes. “We have prepared some special dishes for New Year’s Eve and Jan 1,” said A N Sahu, a hotel owner here.