"Celebrate with joy, responsibility": Uttar Pradesh DGP urges safe celebrations in New Year message

Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], December 31 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar on Tuesday in his New Year message for 2025, extended heartfelt wishes and highlighted the importance of celebrating the occasion with both joy and responsibility.
DGP Kumar reminded the public that the beginning of a new year is an opportunity to embrace new hopes, happiness, and resolutions, but also emphasized the need for safety and discipline on the roads.
The official urged citizens to avoid dangerous practices such as drinking and driving and riding with three people on a motorcycle, stressing the importance of adhering to speed limits.
The DGP pointed out that the safety of all individuals and the maintenance of law and order remains the top priority for the police.
Kumar also warned that strict legal action would be taken against those who fail to follow traffic regulations.
"The new year brings new hopes, happiness and new resolutions. Celebrate it with. Do not drink and drive, do not ride three people on a bike and follow the speed limit. Remember that the safety of all and maintaining law and order is the top priority of the police. Strict legal action will be taken for not following the rules. Wishing you all a safe, healthy and happy New Year," said the DGP in a self made video.
As Uttar Pradesh gears up for the New Year celebrations, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ayodhya Range, Praveen Kumar, assured that comprehensive security measures and arrangements have been put in place across the state.
Specifically addressing Ayodhya, he emphasized that the authorities are ensuring a smooth experience for pilgrims, with strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) established to maintain security and order.
"All arrangements have been made across the state. In Ayodhya, we are ensuring that the pilgrims do not face any inconvenience. The SOPs have been put in place in view of security," said the IG.
Meanwhile, in the national capital, Delhi Police outlined comprehensive security arrangements to ensure a safe celebration. Famous spots such as Hauz Khas, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar are expected to see large crowds for the festivities.
Police have set up 27 checkpoints with personnel equipped with breath analyzers to check for drunk driving and promote road safety. In addition, 14 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and 16 Police Control Room (PCR) vans have been stationed at strategic locations for rapid response.
According to officials, special attention is being given to 35 celebration venues and 15 popular spots, including malls, motels, and cinema halls, which will be under strict surveillance.
The police force deployed for the occasion includes seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 38 Inspectors, 329 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, along with 161 female officers.
Regular beat and vehicle patrols will bolster visibility and quick response mechanisms.
Authorities have appealed to residents to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with deployed personnel. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to nearby officers or through the helpline number 112.
New Year is a festival celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly in urban areas. However, the occasion often sees a rise in alcohol consumption, which sometimes leads to an increase in cases of alcohol smuggling. (ANI)