Hyderabad Gets Ready for New Year Celebrations Amid Strict Vigil
As Hyderabad gears up to welcome 2025, pubs across the city are preparing for grand celebrations with musical nights and parties. However, the city police and anti-drug teams are on high alert to ensure safety and prevent any illegal activities, particularly drug trafficking, during the festivities.
To tackle drug abuse during the celebrations, the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGANB) has been conducting inspections at pubs hosting year-end parties. On Sunday night, TGANB officials and local police carried out a joint operation at a pub in Madhapur. During the raid, they apprehended a group of young individuals allegedly consuming drugs, including ganja.
The police arrested 25 people suspected of drug use. Among them, 14 were subjected to advanced drug testing, and eight tested positive for substances such as THC (from ganja), cocaine, amphetamine, and methamphetamine. In response, authorities have imposed strict regulations for New Year events in pubs and issued warnings to pub managers to adhere to safety guidelines. Violators could face severe legal consequences.
To ensure safety, the police have instructed pub management to install CCTV cameras inside and outside the venues, including parking areas, for better surveillance. Metal detectors are also being set up at entrances to enhance security. These measures aim to monitor crowds and prevent any untoward incidents.
Pub owners have been warned to keep their premises drug-free during the celebrations. Suspicious activities in and around pubs will be closely monitored by the authorities to curb drug-related offenses. Organizers are also tasked with ensuring the safe transportation of patrons consuming alcohol after 1 a.m. Failure to arrange this could hold pub owners accountable.
So far, 32 pubs have received official permission to host New Year parties. To attract more visitors, renowned DJs, Bollywood celebrities, and Goa-based singers and performers are set to entertain the crowds during the celebrations. Despite the festive mood, the police are determined to maintain law and order, ensuring a safe and enjoyable New Year for everyone.
