HYDERABAD: City traffic police are tightening their crackdown on drunken driving as violations soar to alarming levels across Hyderabad. With over 52,000 cases registered in the first four months of 2024, authorities are grappling with a growing threat to road safety.
According to police data, an average of 158 drunken driving cases are being booked daily under the Hyderabad Police Commissionerate. Between January and 2 May, officers recorded 19,536 cases. The total number of cases registered so far this year has already surpassed the 43,940 violations noted in 2023, reaching 52,080.
The spike in violations has drawn attention to the dangers posed by intoxicated drivers, who are now a leading cause of road accidents in the city. Officials report that weekends—particularly Saturdays and Sundays—see the highest number of offenders, especially during late-night patrols.
April alone saw 4,836 cases registered, and in a strong signal of zero tolerance, 304 offenders have been sentenced to jail. Notably, the crackdown has also resulted in the booking of several women, a trend that has prompted traffic police to expand their counselling outreach.
Special centres have been established in Begumpet and Goshamahal to offer rehabilitation and counselling to those caught driving under the influence. These facilities aim to educate offenders on the consequences of their actions and reduce repeat violations.
Police say the majority of those apprehended are young adults, indicating a worrying trend among the city’s youth. Officials urge parents to be more vigilant and ensure that their children understand the risks of drinking and driving before handing over vehicle keys.
Banjara Hills and Panjagutta have emerged as hotspots for violations, with regular checks being intensified in these high-risk zones.
Authorities have reiterated that while enforcement continues, community awareness and responsible behaviour remain key to curbing the menace of drunken driving.