Vijayawada police impose strict restrictions ahead of New Year celebrations

In view of New Year celebrations, the Vijayawada city police have imposed stringent restrictions to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents. City Police Commissioner Rajasekhar Babu said robust security measures were being put in place to maintain law and order during the festive period.

Addressing the media, the Police Commissioner announced that all major flyovers in the city, including the busy Benz Circle flyover and the Kanakadurga flyover, will be closed during night hours on December 31. He said the restrictions on flyover movement would continue during night-time until January 13 as part of enhanced traffic and security management.

He made it clear that celebrations spilling onto roads would not be tolerated. Cutting cakes on public roads, bursting firecrackers, assembling in large groups, or creating disturbances in the name of New Year festivities have been strictly prohibited. He said that special focus would be on preventing rash and dangerous driving, particularly by youth.

The Commissioner warned that strict action would be taken against motorists indulging in over-speeding, performing stunts on two-wheelers, removing silencers to create noise pollution, or violating traffic norms. Special drunken driving checks will be conducted across the city to nab offenders driving under the influence of alcohol. Police officials said cases would be registered against those violating the restrictions, and legal action would follow without exception. Triple riding on two-wheelers will also attract stringent penalties, the Commissioner added.

Appealing to the public, Rajasekhar Babu urged citizens to cooperate with the police and celebrate the New Year peacefully from their homes. “Public safety is our top priority. With citizens’ cooperation, we can ensure that the New Year begins on a calm and secure note,” he said.