New Year 2025: Bengaluru's Namma Metro Extends Services For Dec 31, Implements Special Measures
Namma Metro will extend services till 2:40 AM on New Year's Eve, with trains running at 10-minute intervals from 11 PM. MG Road Metro Station will close at 11 PM.
To accommodate New Year’s Eve celebrations, Namma Metro will run extended services until 2:40 AM on January 1. The final train from Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Metro Station (Majestic) is scheduled to depart at 2:40 AM, while trains from terminal stations such as Silk Institute, Madavara, Challaghatta, and Whitefield (Kadugodi) will leave at 2 AM.
To handle the surge in commuters who will be out to celebrate New Year's Eve, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced that MG Road Metro Station will close at 11 PM on December 31. During the extended hours, trains will run at intervals of 10 minutes, starting at 11 PM. Commuters can board trains at Trinity and Cubbon Park stations as alternatives to the MG Road Metro Station, reported The New Indian Express.
For trips after 11 PM, BMRCL recommends purchasing return journey paper tickets, priced at Rs 50, instead of using tokens. Commuters can continue to use Metro travel cards and QR code tickets. These paper tickets will be available at all Metro stations beginning at 8 AM on December 31.
To reduce crowding, passengers heading toward Whitefield or Silk Institute stations are advised to board the Metro at the Trinity Metro Station. Similarly, those travelling to Challaghatta and Madavara are advised to use the Cubbon Park Metro Station.
These measures aim to provide commuters with a seamless and secure travel experience as they ring in the New Year.
Police Presence Boosted In Bengaluru
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said on Monday that security arrangements are being boosted across Bengaluru as well the entire state to ensure a peaceful celebration. Thousands of police officers have been deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.
The minister urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and avoid activities that could lead to disturbances. "We have taken all necessary steps to prevent any incidents in Bengaluru and across Karnataka. Strict warnings have been issued to those intending to create trouble, and we are fully prepared. Thousands of officers are on duty, and I encourage the public to enjoy the New Year celebrations responsibly and joyfully," Parameshwara was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, speaking to PTI videos, highlighted the installation of over 1,000 surveillance cameras throughout Bengaluru by various departments to enhance security. He emphasized that public safety and the city's reputation are top priorities, warning against disruptive behaviour. "The city's law and order will be strictly maintained. Over 1,000 cameras are monitoring activities, and any nuisance will be promptly addressed by the police," Shivakumar stated.
The Bengaluru Police have implemented comprehensive measures to manage the New Year celebrations, particularly in crowded areas, to ensure public safety and smooth traffic movement.
A force of 11,830 personnel, including senior officers and civil defence staff, has been deployed to oversee security. Authorities are closely monitoring potential issues such as illegal parties and drug-related activities.
Police officials have also clarified that New Year celebrations are permitted only until 1 AM, and residents are expected to adhere to the specified time limits.
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