As the year drew to a close, the specter of drunk driving loomed large, with a staggering surge of over 50% in cases reported during the recent special drive by traffic police. The annual crackdown, initiated on December 16, saw an alarming increase in the number of challans issued, raising concerns about road safety and the need for more stringent measures.
The Numbers Speak: Doubling of Challans and Regional Spikes
This year’s special drive against drunken driving revealed a stark reality, as the number of challans issued nearly doubled from 1,103 in 2022 to 2,129. Delhi, in particular, witnessed a notable increase, with around 360 people fined for driving under the influence of alcohol on New Year’s Eve, compared to 308 in the previous year.
Mumbai, a bustling metropolis, experienced a significant surge on New Year’s Eve, with 778 individuals fined for drunk driving, compared to 433 the year before. The majority of these cases, 578 to be precise, involved bikers, highlighting a concerning trend. Over 3,000 traffic policemen were on patrolling duty, subjecting 5,338 motorists and bikers to breath analyzer tests from 10 pm on Tuesday until 6 am on Wednesday.
Regional Patterns: Pubs and Bars Impact Cases in Specific Suburbs
Officers noted that the western, eastern, and northern suburbs witnessed a higher number of drunk driving cases, attributing it to the concentration of pubs and bars in these areas. To address the issue, the joint commissioner of traffic police issued a notification in the last week of December, instructing personnel to keep cases of drunk driving and speeding in check.
“We have sent the list of offenders to the RTOs to begin the process of suspending their licenses for six months,” stated an officer, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities are tackling the issue.
Educational Initiatives and Enforcement: Striking a Balance
Beyond prosecuting violators, the police implemented a multi-faceted approach to address the root causes of drunk driving. Road safety awareness camps were organized in schools, colleges, and major road intersections, where educational programs included short films, lectures, and literature emphasizing safe driving practices. Inserts in newspapers, social media campaigns, mobile exhibition vehicles, and street plays were also employed to spread awareness about the consequences of drunk driving.
Despite these efforts, the surge in drunk driving cases underscores the need for continued vigilance and more comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of road users.
