Chandigarh, Jan 1 - The sharply dipping mercury failed to dampen the spirit of the residents of this union territory who came out of their homes in huge numbers to welcome 2010 on New Year's Eve.

The commercial hub here, Sector 17 plaza, was thronged by over 20,000 people who had gathered Thursday night to celebrate the advent of the new year.

The administration had planned a series of activities in Sector 17 -- including fireworks, music, singing and dance competitions.

The discotheques, hotels and clubs were packed.

"It is my first visit to Chandigarh and it's all very exciting here in Sector 17. It seems that entire city has come under one roof to celebrate new year," said Amrit Saluja, a New Delhi entrepreneur, who had come here to celebrate with his friends.

Pankhuri Sethi, a student, said: "The fireworks were really amazing. There were so many things to entertain us that there was no need to go to any night club or disc."

The minimum temperature in Chandigarh Thursday was 3.4 degrees Celsius, three degrees below average for this time of the year.

Over 1,000 policemen were deployed. At one time, some policemen caned a group of youths in Sector 17 to forestall hooliganism.  (IANS)