As the New Year approaches, people across the city are either travelling or making last-minute plans to get away. In Bengaluru, while popular party hubs, pubs and restaurants are filling up fast, many
residents are also looking at short trips to nearby destinations to welcome the New Year. Hill stations and scenic spots around the city usually see a surge in visitors during this time, with Nandi Hills often topping the list for those hoping to ring in the year with a sunrise view.
In a move to maintaining law and order, entry to Nandi Hills has been completely banned during the New Year period. Chikkaballapur Superintendent of Police Kushal Choksi confirmed that the restriction will be in force from 12 pm on December 31, 2025, until the afternoon of January 1, 2026. The order has been issued by the district collector, citing concerns over crowd management, safety, and the possibility of disruptions during celebrations.
Officials have said the decision was taken after considering past experiences, where large crowds at Nandi Hills led to traffic congestion, safety risks and difficulties in policing the area. With New Year celebrations expected to draw huge numbers, authorities felt preventive action was necessary to avoid untoward incidents.
Alongside the entry ban, police have intensified surveillance in and around the Nandi Hills region. Hotels, homestays and resorts in the surrounding areas are under strict monitoring. Police have warned that any violations of the law, even if carried out in the name of celebration, will invite strict action. Bars and restaurants in the vicinity have also been instructed to shut operations for a specified period to curb late-night gatherings and potential disturbances.
Security arrangements have been further strengthened in view of the expected arrival of thousands of devotees at the Isha Foundation in Chikkaballapur on New Year’s Day. Heavy police deployment has been made to manage crowds and ensure smooth movement in the area.
Meanwhile, within Bengaluru city, police preparedness is equally visible. Ahead of the celebrations, senior police officials conducted inspections in key nightlife zones, including Koramangala, one of the city’s busiest party hubs. Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh personally carried out a bike patrol to review security arrangements and interact with the public. He was accompanied by senior officers including Joint Commissioner of Police (East) Ramesh Banot, DCP Sara Fathima, Traffic Commissioner Karthik Reddy and CCB DCP Haribabu.
Given the large turnout expected in Koramangala, the police have set up a temporary control room to monitor crowd movement through CCTV surveillance. Authorities have reiterated that these measures are meant to ensure that New Year celebrations remain safe, orderly and enjoyable for everyone.
Residents and visitors have been advised to follow official guidelines, avoid restricted areas like Nandi Hills, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as the city steps into the New Year under heightened security.
