Hyderabad Police warns strict action on drunk driving during New Year celebrations
Hyderabad: Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar on Tuesday issued a stern warning against traffic and safety violations during New Year celebrations. In line with the Hyderabad Police drunk driving warning, he announced that the city police will begin special enforcement drives targeting drunk driving from Wednesday, continuing through January 1.
While addressing a video conference with field-level officers from the Telangana Integrated Command and Control Centre (TGiCCC) in Banjara Hills, Sajjanar emphasized the need for tight security during Christmas, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and New Year events. He urged officers to ensure peaceful and safe celebrations across the city.
Traffic and public safety: Strong measures in place
To prevent mishaps, Sajjanar ordered increased deployment at hot spots and areas with prior crime incidents. He also directed officials to monitor repeat offenders and maintain strict vigilance in crowded zones and junctions.
Notably, drunk driving checks will be conducted at 100 locations on the night of December 31. Seven extra platoons will join the enforcement effort. Sajjanar made it clear that violators will face harsh consequences including vehicle seizure, a ₹10,000 fine, and up to six months in jail. Repeat offenders may even lose their driving licence permanently.
He advised revelers to designate a driver or use cab services. In addition, police will crack down on street racing, rash driving, and stunts such as wheelies.
Noise control, drug use, and conduct under watch
The Commissioner noted that pubs and hotels rated three stars and above may host New Year parties only until 1 a.m. He stressed that sound pollution norms must be strictly followed. If the noise exceeds permitted limits, police will seize the sound systems.
He also warned organizers of legal consequences if their events involve drug use or obscene performances. In such cases, the venue’s management will be held accountable. The police may cancel licences and file criminal charges.
Women’s safety gets special focus
To ensure women’s safety, Sajjanar announced the deployment of 15 SHE teams in plain clothes. These teams will monitor party venues, junctions, and other crowded locations. He assured that officers will arrest anyone misbehaving with women on the spot.
Finally, Sajjanar appealed to citizens to follow the law and welcome 2026 in a responsible and safe manner.
Officials present at the meeting
Senior officers who attended the video conference included Additional Commissioner of Police (Crimes) M. Srinivasulu and DCPs N. Shwetha, Rakshita Krishnamurthy, R. Rupesh, R. Venkateswara Rao, V. Aravind Babu, and Lavanya Nayak Jadhav.