While millions across the National Capital Region (NCR) prepare to ring in the New Year with parties and festivities, a dedicated army of professionals remains on high alert, working behind the scenes to ensure celebrations are safe and smooth. For police personnel, bartenders, bouncers, and cab drivers, December 31st is not a night of revelry but one of immense responsibility and long duty hours.
Police on Patrol: Safety Over Celebration
For law enforcement agencies in Delhi and the NCR, New Year's Eve is a major operational event, not a holiday. Police forces are busy circulating traffic advisories and safety guidelines well in advance. A Delhi Police personnel shared that the entire force, from constables to the Commissioner, remains on the roads to prevent any issues for the public.
"December 31st is a day of duty for us. No one in the police thinks about parties or celebrations during their shift. The sole focus of the entire police force is that the public remains safe," he stated. Their preparations begin weeks early, centered on duty rather than personal celebration. Activities range from conducting breathalyzer tests to penalizing traffic violators. Officers view their visible presence and necessary restrictions as a worthwhile trade-off if it means a safer start to the year for citizens.
Hospitality Heroes: Smiles Amidst the Rush
Behind bustling bars, the scene is one of controlled chaos. Bartenders work at a frenetic pace, mixing cocktails, managing orders, and discreetly monitoring guests' alcohol intake, all while maintaining a welcoming smile. Lopsang Galchen Lama from Sidecar has spent nine consecutive New Year's Eves behind the bar.
She describes the night as busier than usual but driven by the same goal: guest satisfaction. "Seeing people celebrate makes the effort worthwhile. It's bittersweet, though. I would love to celebrate with my friends and family too," she admits, appealing for patience and kindness from guests on this long night for hospitality workers.
Shera Thakur, a senior bartender at 21 Shots in Gurgaon, emphasizes that his role extends beyond serving drinks. "I know how to make people drink, so I also know how to help them slow down. Our responsibility is to ensure people have fun but also drink responsibly," he explains.
Guardians of the Vibe: Bouncers & Cab Drivers
Often labeled as party poopers, bouncers walk a fine line between maintaining safety and not killing the mood. Sunny Singh, who works at various NCR pubs and events, says their intervention is minimal unless situations spiral. "If someone's behavior makes others uncomfortable or they are too drunk, we politely ask them to leave and even escort them out," he says. He notes that venues often double their security detail on New Year's Eve, making it an intensely demanding night.
For cab drivers, December 31st translates to peak demand, extended hours, and passengers in every state of mind. Driver Radhey Shyam knows the drill: parties start by 9 PM, and bookings surge past midnight. "We encounter drunk, talkative, and even dancing passengers. We don't mind the fun, but if a woman is alone, we only take the ride if she is conscious or with someone," he states, highlighting their informal safety protocols.
Another driver, Kamaljeet, underscores their critical role. "If we don't drive cabs that night, how will people get home?" he asks. He confirms that areas like Hauz Khas, Greater Kailash, Connaught Place, and Cyber Hub see the highest bookings. With nearly 90% of passengers coming from parties, drivers remain extra vigilant to ensure everyone reaches home safely, capping off a night where their service is indispensable.
