Ahead of forthcoming New Year Eve celebrations in the city, Hyderabad Police Commissioner C.V. Anand issued guidelines for three star and above hotels, clubs, bars and restaurants.
As per the orders, establishments hosting ticketed events until 1 a.m. must seek permission from the Commissioner at least 15 days in advance. The organisers have been mandated to ensure CCTV cameras with recording facility are installed at all entry and exit points and parking areas. Sufficient security personnel must be provided by the organisers for traffic management and overall security, the official further said.
No minors should be permitted in pubs or bars or in programmes organised for couples. The order also said that no one should be allowed to use drugs, and organisers should be vary of parking areas and other spots where drugs could be clandestinely sold.
The order stressed strict adherence to decency standards in apparel, dance acts, gestures, and words is mandatory, with no obscenity or nudity permitted. Outdoor sound systems must be switched off by 10 p.m., as per Supreme Court guidelines, while indoor sound systems are limited to 45 decibels until 1 a.m, the order further clarified.
The organisers have been warned to not allow any firearms at the venue and ensure the number of passes/tickets/coupons does not exceed the venue’s capacity, to avoid any law and order troubles.
Adequate parking facilities must be provided to avoid traffic congestion. While establishments need to ensure liquor is not served beyond hours permitted by the Excise department, they must also provide designated drivers to ensure safe transportation for intoxicated patrons.
Compliance with fire safety guidelines issued by the District Fire Officer/Regional Fire Officer is mandatory.
The advisory also requires establishments to display notices at their entrances and within their premises, warning customers of the consequences of drink-driving. It states that driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above 30 mg/100 ml is illegal, and offenders will be prosecuted under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act.
If a person is caught driving while intoxicated, their vehicle will be temporarily seized, and a designated driver or valid licence holder must be found to take control.
The advisory also outlines penalties for drink-driving, including fines of up to ₹10,000, imprisonment, and suspension of the driver’s licence. Additionally, vehicle owners will be held accountable if a minor is found driving. The police also highlighted the importance of avoiding over-speeding, reckless driving, and noise pollution from modified vehicles.
Published – December 14, 2024 04:00 am IST
