Bhubaneswar: As parties reached a crescendo at zero hour to ring in the New Year, fire services directorate kept eyes on hotels and clubs to avoid a repeat of the recent Mumbai tragedy that took away several lives, including Sarbajit Parida from the state. Besides, police were present in large number to avoid any untoward incidents.

The fire services directorate had started the vigil on Saturday and asked party organisers to adopt fire safety measures before the events kicked off.

"All of them had come up with adequate fire safety measures. Besides we had also asked them to apply fire retardant solutions on combustible materials to prevent spread of fire. All of the venues did comply with our directives," said a fire official.

Fifteen platoons of police personnel moved around the city to maintain law and order.

"Police personnel had put up rail guards on roads to slow down traffic. Women cops in plain clothes were deployed at party venues to keep a tab on eve teasing," said deputy commissioner of police Satyabrata Bhoi.

He also said security cover was provided at tourist spots including Dhauli, Nandankanan and Lingaraj Temple. He said cops also used breathalysers to detect drink driving.

Those found having alcohol content beyond the permissible limit were penalised, said a cop. "Order had been issued to penalise and seize the vehicles of violators," he said.