New Year festivities begin worldwide amid heightened security in Pakistan

As the world prepares to welcome the New Year, celebrations are set to begin today across major global capitals, while authorities in Pakistan have imposed strict security measures to ensure public safety during festivities, 24NewsHD TV channel reproted on Wednesday.

According to the report, globally, the New Year will be ushered in first in Auckland, New Zealand, where the Sky Tower will be illuminated, followed by large-scale celebrations at Sydney Harbour. 

In London, fireworks arrangements have been completed near Big Ben, while in New York, thousands are expected to gather in Times Square to witness the iconic illuminated crystal ball drop.

In Pakistan, the New Year will be welcomed with enthusiasm in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where fireworks displays and public events are planned. 

However, law enforcement agencies have issued alerts urging citizens to avoid aerial firing, reckless driving, and other unlawful activities during New Year’s night, particularly on busy roads.

Islamabad Police have enforced strict security arrangements for the occasion. Deputy Inspector General Jawad Tariq said more than 2,000 police officers would be deployed across the federal capital, with increased patrolling in markets, parks, and major thoroughfares. He warned that any instance of hooliganism or aerial firing would be dealt with strictly under the law.

In Lahore, police have also finalised a comprehensive security plan. CCPO Bilal Siddiq Kamyana announced a zero-tolerance policy against aerial firing, one-wheeling, racing, and motorcycle alterations. 

Special police teams, including the Dolphin Squad, PRU, and Elite Force, will conduct extensive patrolling, while checkpoints will be established to curb violations. Action has also been ordered against mechanics involved in illegal bike modifications and against drug dealers.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon placed the province on high alert, warning that aerial firing and reckless behaviour would not be tolerated. 

He said additional police personnel would be deployed at sensitive locations, while strict surveillance would be maintained at parks, hotels, recreational centres, and places of worship.

Control rooms and police helplines have been activated across Sindh, and citizens have been urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and immediately report any suspicious activity to Police Helpline 15 to ensure a peaceful and safe start to the New Year.

Reporters: Muhammad Awais and Irfan Malik