Chandigarh Police have rolled out a special 112 pick-and-drop service for women ahead of New Year’s Eve 2025, bolstering city-wide security with dedicated squads and checkpoints to ensure safe celebrations.
In a proactive move to safeguard women during the festive rush, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kanwardeep Kaur announced a free pick-and-drop service via the emergency helpline 112.
Women revellers at pubs, malls, and markets can simply dial the number for swift transport home late into the night, addressing common safety concerns during peak celebrations.
This service forms part of a broader strategy that includes a specialised lady squad comprising 20 personnel, fully equipped with vehicles for rapid deployment across sensitive zones.
SSP Kaur personally underlined the measure’s importance in a public statement: “Any woman or girl who wishes to go home can call our PCR 112, and we will provide pick-and-drop service.” Her words, shared across social media platforms, have resonated widely, with videos garnering thousands of views and shares.
The initiative responds directly to past incidents where late-night commuting posed risks, particularly in bustling areas like Elante Mall and Sector 17 markets. By humanising the response-focusing on individual needs-it transforms a routine police function into an empathetic lifeline, encouraging more women to participate confidently in the festivities.
Multi-Layered Security Deployment
Chandigarh’s security apparatus is in full swing, with approximately 1,100 personnel mobilised for New Year’s Eve. This includes 17 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 12 gazetted officers, and numerous inspectors manning 18 outer checkpoints and 44 internal ones, alongside joint traffic nakas.
Barricades numbering 70-80 will dot key locations such as city borders, bars, clubs, and high-traffic spots, enforcing rigorous drink-and-drive checks to curb road mishaps.
PCR vehicles, staffed exclusively by women constables, stand positioned at seven strategic points for immediate action. Fire tenders and hydraulic ladders are on standby for any emergencies, while traffic near major venues like Elante Mall will operate on a one-way system to ease congestion.
SSP Kaur urged the public: “Celebrate the new year peacefully and let others celebrate peacefully,” a call that balances enforcement with community spirit. These layers not only prevent chaos but also deter anti-social elements, drawing from lessons of previous years when overcrowding led to minor skirmishes.
Background and Evolving Context
Chandigarh, known for its planned urban layout, sees a surge in visitors during New Year, turning sectors into vibrant party hubs. Past celebrations have occasionally spiralled into safety lapses-overcrowded streets, impaired driving, and isolated harassment cases prompting calls for better vigilance.
This year’s ramp-up builds on incremental improvements; for instance, enhanced CCTV coverage and drone surveillance now complement foot patrols.
The 112 service marks a milestone in gender-sensitive policing, inspired by similar models in other cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Social media buzz, including Instagram reels from official handles, has amplified awareness, with netizens lauding the focus on women while some advocate extending it universally.
No major opposition from stakeholders has emerged, though police anticipate higher footfall due to year-end holidays, testing the framework’s resilience.
Stakeholder Perspectives and Public Pulse
SSP Kaur’s leadership has been pivotal, her announcements blending authority with approachability. Local traders and venue owners welcome the measures, expecting smoother operations without disruptions.
Women’s groups, often vocal on safety, have endorsed the squad deployment as a step towards empowerment. On platforms like Facebook and Instagram, reactions range from gratitude-“Finally, a safe way home!”-to constructive suggestions for app-based tracking.
Men’s forums mildly question the gender exclusivity, sparking debates on equity, yet the consensus favours the initiative’s intent amid rising urban crime stats. No formal complaints from political figures have surfaced, aligning with the administration’s zero-tolerance on public disorder.
This dialogue underscores a maturing civic discourse, where safety enhancements foster broader trust.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian applauds Chandigarh Police’s forward-thinking approach, which weaves empathy into enforcement, ensuring women celebrate without fear and promoting harmony in diverse crowds.
By prioritising vulnerability, it champions kindness and coexistence, nudging society towards safer public spaces.
