People of Chennai welcomed New Year by attending parties, visiting temples and exchanging wishes with friends and loved ones in person and on social media.
Meanwhile, seven persons were reportedly killed in various road mishaps from midnight till this morning. Some of them were said to be under the influence of alcohol.
In the meantime, a youth has allegedly murdered his father for questioning him for coming home late after attending a New Year party.
Police have made elaborate security arrangements and more than 15,000 police personnel were deployed on security duty in the city, including at the ECR stretch.
In his New Year message, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit said, "I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Tamil Nadu on the occasion of New Year.
The New Year brings with it hope for a brighter tomorrow replete with prosperity and goodwill. It is my earnest hope and desire that the people of Tamil Nadu witness happiness and joy of a level hitherto unexperienced."
Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, DMK president M K Stalin and other leaders have also conveyed their New Year wishes.
The CM said, "this government has been functioning for the betterment of the people and has implemented several welfare measures. People should make proper use of such benefits and should take the state in a development path. I wish this New Year brings upliftment and betterment
for the people of the State."
