Lights, cameras, more cops for a safe New Year in Mumbai

In wake of recent terror attacks in Pakistan and Australia, the Mumbai police have stepped up efforts to ensure the city brings in the New Year safely. Heavy security has been deployed at areas traditionally thronged by revellers, with emphasis on Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Juhu and Marve beaches.

At least 1,000 uniformed policemen will be present at the Gateway of India and Marine Drive. They will be assisted by companies of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF).

The bylanes around Taj and Hilton hotels in south Mumbai will be barricaded and vehicular traffic will be restricted in these areas.

“We are coordinating with the BMC and have asked them to illuminate all the places in and around these party spots, apart from other vulnerable places in the city. We will instal CCTV cameras with night vision at the party spots, mostly in south Mumbai, to ensure watertight security,” said Dhananjay Kulkarni, deputy commissioner of police (crime) and Mumbai police spokesperson.

At the Gateway, there will be separate entry and exit points for women and families, and the police will not allow bags or water bottles. Visitors to the monument are already frisked and made to pass through metal detectors, and this will continue on the eve of the new year.

The security cover will also include plain-clothed policemen and crime branch officers, who will keep a watch on suspicious movements and likelihood of trouble.