Bengaluru Police to provide safe drop services on New Year night

Government-backed safety plan allows late-night partying, early bar openings and special drop services for intoxicated revellers across the city

As Bengaluru gears up for New Year celebrations, a controversial yet safety-focused plan by the government and police has drawn attention across the city. While authorities usually urge people to avoid drinking and partying, this year’s approach appears different, party responsibly and reach home safely, with police support if needed.

For New Year’s Eve, drinking and partying have been officially permitted till midnight, with authorities focusing on preventing road accidents and chaos rather than stopping celebrations altogether. In a major move, bars will reopen as early as 6 am, even before sunrise, allowing extended celebrations under regulation.

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To tackle the annual problem of drunk revellers stranded on roads, special pickup and drop arrangements have been made. Police have identified eight locations across Bengaluru where heavily intoxicated individuals can be picked up. From these spots, revellers will be dropped home safely using cars, and police jeeps will also be used if required.

Officials say the decision was taken keeping in mind past New Year experiences, where police personnel struggled overnight to control drunk crowds and escort people back home. This time, instead of chasing intoxicated individuals, the system aims to proactively assist them.

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Authorities clarified that the intention is not to promote alcohol consumption, but to reduce drunk driving, road accidents and public disorder. Police teams will be deployed at these pickup points to ensure people do not collapse on roads or create safety risks for themselves or others.

The unusual arrangement has sparked debate, with many questioning whether the government is indirectly encouraging drinking. However, officials maintain that the focus is purely on public safety and harm reduction during one of the busiest nights of the year.