In a major weekend enforcement drive, Hyderabad Traffic Police fined 212 motorists for drunk driving across central zones. Learn the details of the operation, penalties, and preventive measures being taken to ensure safer roads.
Drunk driving continues to be one of the leading causes of road accidents and fatalities in India. In a sweeping weekend operation, Hyderabad Traffic Police booked 212 motorists for driving under the influence (DUI) in various parts of central Hyderabad. The intensified enforcement comes amid growing concerns over public safety, increasing traffic violations, and fatal crashes linked to alcohol consumption behind the wheel.
Hyderabad Police Enforcement Drive
According to Hyderabad Traffic Police data, the operation was carried out across several high-traffic police station limits, including Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, Narayanguda, and Saifabad. The checks were conducted late in the evening and extended until early morning hours to cover peak nightlife activity periods. Breathalyzer tests were administered at multiple checkpoints, leading to hundreds of prosecutions under relevant Motor Vehicle Act provisions.
Beyond fines, violators were prosecuted, and their driving licenses were recommended for suspension for periods ranging from three months to one year, depending on the severity of the offence. Hyderabad Police officials reiterated that repeat offenders face harsher punishments, including vehicle impoundment and possible imprisonment, as per the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019.
లైసెన్స్ లేకుండా డ్రైవింగ్ చేయడం చాలా ప్రమాదం. అనుభవం లేకుండా డ్రైవింగ్ చేసి రోడ్డు ప్రమాదాలకు కారణం కావొద్దు. నిర్లక్ష్యపు డ్రైవింగ్ వల్ల మీతో పాటూ ఎదుటివారి కుటుంబం కూడా రోడ్డున పడొచ్చు. బాధ్యతగల పౌరులుగా వ్యవహరించండి. ట్రాఫిక్ నిబంధనలు పాటించండి.#telanganapolice pic.twitter.com/uE0OHHsgmT
— Telangana Police (@TelanganaCOPs) October 16, 2025
Stepped-Up Monitoring and Tech-Enabled Checks
Traffic DCPs reported that the special enforcement drive was part of a larger city-wide safety initiative that includes the use of body cameras, advanced breath analyzers, and vehicle registration scanning systems. These tools allow officers to validate license data instantly and ensure transparency in enforcement.
In addition to in-person patrols, surveillance footage from integrated command centers was reviewed to identify reckless driving incidents associated with alcohol consumption. The authorities plan to expand the deployment of this system to more locations across Hyderabad in the coming months.
Impact of Drunk Driving in Hyderabad
According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, drunk driving accounts for nearly 7 percent of total road accident deaths in major Indian metropolitan cities. Hyderabad, which has seen steady growth in vehicle ownership and nightlife culture, has been particularly vulnerable. A report by the Telangana State Police indicates that alcohol-related crashes in the city increased by 8 percent in 2023, prompting renewed focus on strict legal enforcement and public education.
Public Awareness and Civic Responsibility
The Hyderabad Traffic Police have intensified public awareness campaigns through collaborations with educational institutions, civic organizations, and corporate bodies. These initiatives aim to promote responsible driving behavior and encourage the use of ridesharing options, designated drivers, or public transport after consuming alcohol.
Inspector General of Police (Traffic) highlighted that the objective is not merely punitive but preventive. The police emphasize community participation, urging citizens to report dangerous drivers through the official traffic control helpline or the Hyderabad Traffic Police mobile application.
Penalties and Legal Provisions
Under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, a person found driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level exceeding 30 mg per 100 ml of blood is liable for legal action. For a first offence, the punishment includes imprisonment of up to six months or a fine of up to Rs. 10,000. Repeat offenders face imprisonment of up to two years and higher fines.
Repeated offenders may also have their licenses permanently revoked, and in cases of injury or death caused due to drunk driving, charges under Indian Penal Code sections pertaining to culpable homicide may be invoked.
Wearing a helmet isn’t just about following rules, it’s about valuing life and showing responsibility.
— Telangana Police (@TelanganaCOPs) October 15, 2025
Be smart, be safe, and protect yourself and your loved ones every ride.
Safety is style, and smart riders always gear up first!#WearHelmet #RoadSafety #TelanganaPolice pic.twitter.com/tJjlR9nIvU
Preventive Measures Moving Forward
To reduce the frequency of such offences, Hyderabad Police intend to maintain random DUI checks every weekend across all major traffic zones. The department also plans to collaborate with local pubs, bars, and restaurants to implement voluntary breathalyzer stations and message-driven billboards aimed at deterring drunk driving behavior.
In addition, collaborations with ride-hailing services are being pursued to offer subsidized rides during peak nightlife hours, thereby reducing the temptation to drive under the influence.
Expert Insights on Road Safety
Road safety experts emphasize that consistent enforcement paired with behavioral change campaigns is key to achieving long-term results. The combination of fines, license suspensions, and awareness initiatives is expected to cultivate a culture of responsibility among drivers.
Traffic safety consultant Dr. V. Nandakumar notes that “cities like Hyderabad must move beyond event-based drives and introduce continuous deterrent measures such as automated DUI checks, publicizing offenders’ details, and community counselling.”
For additional information on national road safety standards and enforcement, readers can refer to reputable sources such as:
1. National Crime Records Bureau
2. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
3. Telangana State Police Department
4. World Health Organization – Road Safety
Conclusion
The Hyderabad Traffic Police’s latest crackdown on drunk driving demonstrates a renewed commitment to road safety and public wellbeing. By combining legal enforcement, technological interventions, and community outreach, the city is taking decisive action toward reducing alcohol-related road accidents.
Responsible driving is not only a legal obligation but a civic duty. Choosing not to drink and drive can save countless lives and contribute to a safer, more disciplined Hyderabad.