Drunk driving has become a pressing concern in Gurugram, with the city’s traffic police taking stringent measures to curb this dangerous practice. Over a short span of 20 days, 1,084 challans were issued for drunk driving, signaling the authorities’ commitment to ensuring safer roads for all. This article delves deep into the issue, shedding light on the alarming statistics, measures being taken, and their implications for road safety in the city.
Drunk Driving in Gurugram – A Growing Concern
Drunk driving poses a severe threat not only to the driver but also to pedestrians and other road users. Gurugram, a bustling hub of corporate and residential activity, has witnessed a significant rise in cases of drunk driving over the years. The proactive steps taken by the traffic police highlight the seriousness of the issue and the need for stringent enforcement. Recent data from the Gurugram traffic police underscores the gravity of the situation:
- In just 20 days, 1,084 challans were issued for drunk driving, averaging 54 challans daily.
- Comparatively, 2024 saw a fivefold increase in drunk driving cases compared to 2023.
- Between 2022 and 2024, a total of 33,904 challans were issued for drunk driving.
These numbers indicate a sharp rise in violations and reflect a growing disregard for traffic rules among certain sections of society. To provide a clearer picture, here is a year-wise comparison of challans issued for drunk driving:
2022: 1,081 challans
2023: 5,452 challans
2024: 26,287 challans
Special Campaigns by Gurugram Traffic Police
The Gurugram traffic police have been proactive in addressing the issue through special campaigns. These campaigns aim to identify and penalize offenders, thereby creating a deterrent effect. From January 1 to January 20, the traffic police conducted a targeted campaign where 1,084 challans were issued within 20 days. 10 women were among those penalized for drunk driving. 4 vehicles were impounded during the campaign.
The campaign’s objective was not only to penalize offenders but also to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. Drunk driving is a leading cause of road accidents in Gurugram. A senior police official expressed concerns over the rising number of road mishaps during a road safety committee meeting. Such accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, making it imperative to address the issue urgently.
Measures to Curb Drunk Driving
To tackle the menace of drunk driving, the Gurugram traffic police have implemented several measures: Regular patrolling and setting up checkpoints at strategic locations have proven effective in catching offenders. These checkpoints are equipped with breath analyzers to detect alcohol levels in drivers. Educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drunk driving have been launched. These campaigns target both urban and rural populations, emphasizing the consequences of driving under the influence. The traffic police have imposed hefty fines and penalties to deter offenders. Repeat violators face harsher consequences, including license suspension and imprisonment.