The city hot spots seemed deserted in the early hours today, as potential revellers shied away from going out to celebrate the New Year’s Eve amid tight security measures taken to fend off any untoward situation.

Outdoor jubilation welcoming the year 2008 by a small group of students was seen only on Dhaka University campus.

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No unpleasant event was reported as around 6,000 law enforcers including the police and Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) personnel were on hand.

Police and Rab set up check posts on different city roads. Rab dog and explosives squads were also deployed, while water canons were ready for use.

Roads in the city's posh Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara wore a deserted look with only a few vehicles carrying the residents returning home.

The Department of Narcotics Control had earlier ordered closure of all city bars. However, international standard hotels like Hotel Sonargaon, Sheraton and Hotel Radisson made special arrangements for New Year celebrations.