Shilpa Dhamija, Pune: After hundreds of youngsters were caught with drugs in a rave party, early this year, Pune registered 40 more cases of drug seizure.

This is, however, an indicator of how susceptible the student city has become to drug peddlers. Keeping the city away from such unwanted elements, during the biggest party time of the year is a challenge, which the Pune Police is getting ready for.

"Intelligence and information gathering system has been told to be more active. If there are any large scale parties where there is use of drugs with drinks or if there is any kind of illicit activity, such as drug consumption, we will take action," says Rajendra Singh, Additional CP, Crime branch.

Pune crime branch will coordinate with excise and customs department for information on drug smugglers.

Security forces will pair with home guard force to beef up security. City borders, too, will be covered with 13 check posts.

Every entry lane to Pune will bear heavy security on the New Year eve. The police here is making sure that no matter how heavy the traffic be, no vehicle will enter the city without a security check. Event managers are also hit by the tough stance taken by the city police.

Last year Pune had twelve major events on the New Year eve, this year only six have managed to pass the necessary license tests.

A club owner and event manager says, "After the trans party that really shook the city, this New Year eve is not going to be that big a celebration that it normally is for a lot of event mangers."