India, Dec. 30 -- As people across the country gear up for midnight countdowns, parties and temple visits, cities have tightened security and traffic arrangements for New Year's Eve.

Police and civic authorities have deployed additional personnel, intensified surveillance and imposed restrictions to ensure safe celebrations as crowds spill into public spaces.

In Mumbai, more than 17,000 police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order. Large crowds are expected at the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Girgaon Chowpatty, Bandra Bandstand, and Juhu and Versova beaches from Wednesday evening, with celebrations at hotels, restaurants and malls continuing into the early hours of Thursday.

Police have stepped up patrolling and set...