Pondy Lt Governor, CM extend New Year greetings

Puducherry, Dec 31 (UNI) Puducherry Lt Governor Mukut Mithi, Chief Minister N Rangasamy and leaders of various parties today greeted the people on the eve of New Year.

In his message, Mr Mithi said ''World over, the threat of global warming looms large. Let us take a pledge to protect our environment and create environmental awareness to build a cleaner and greener Puducherry for sustainable development.'' ''As we step into 2008, let us resolve to excel in whatever we do and endeavour to make a contribution to the society,'' he added.

In his message, Mr Rangasamy called upon the people, particulary the youth, to come forward to strengthen the hands of the Government to make Puducherry a pioneer among others states and a symbol of India.

Stating that Puducherry was marching towards self-sufficiency in all spheres, he said the per capita income here had exceeded Rs 61,000, medical facility was available within 1.18 km and the per capita medical expense had risen to Rs 1,071.

Leaders of several parties, including PCC President P Shanmugham and PMK parliamentary party leader Prof Ramadass, also greeted the people on the occasion.

Meanwhile, tight security arrangements have been made in the Union Territory in view of New Year's day. Police pickets have been posted in all vulnerable areas and round-the-clock vigil maintained, police sources said.

Mobile patrolling would be undertaken in the town limits throughout the night. Certain areas, including the beach road, have been declared vehicle-free zones. The Puducherry municipality had imposed a ban on dances in all hotels here tonight.

UNI