Pune Traffic Police Intensifies Crackdown on Drunk, Rash, and Triple-Seat Driving Ahead Of New Year
Pune, 23rd December 2023: The Pune Police traffic branch has initiated a targeted campaign against drunk, rash, and triple-seat driving from December 21 to January 1, aiming to enhance road safety and curb traffic violations during the festive season.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Vijaykumar Magar reported on Friday that the enforcement actions have yielded significant results, with 414 individuals held accountable for drunk driving, 2,900 for rash driving, and 1,360 for triple-seat violations. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Pune has subsequently suspended the driving licenses of 985 offenders based on proposals initiated by the traffic branch. These measures were implemented between January 1 and December 21 of the current year.
Magar emphasized the importance of the campaign in the larger public interest, particularly during the critical period leading up to and including New Year’s Eve. The operation is active between 10 pm and 1 am daily, with the possibility of extending the time frame based on prevailing circumstances. Currently equipped with 100 breathalyzers, the 27 traffic divisions have received two each, and the remaining devices will be deployed as the campaign gains momentum from December 25.
The traffic police will strategically conduct operations at major intersections and junctions across the city. Magar directed the 32 police stations to maintain vigilance, conduct nakabandi operations, and address violations such as triple-seat riding and the use of modified silencers to combat noise pollution.
In cases of rash and negligent driving, coupled with driving under the influence of alcohol, the police will invoke sections 184 and 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act. Offenders will be handed over to the respective police stations for further legal proceedings, including recording statements of witnesses and filing chargesheets before the motor vehicles court. Additionally, the RTO will launch its own campaign against drunk driving.
Traffic Inspector (Administration) Arjun Botre outlined the operational aspects of the drive, involving 54 policemen, two per traffic division initially. Fixed points for taking action against rule violators will be determined, and additional manpower will be deployed to intensify the campaign in the coming days.
Botre urged the public to adhere to traffic norms, cautioning against high-speed driving after consuming alcohol, emphasizing the potential risks to their own lives and the lives of others on the road. The appeal aims to foster responsible driving habits and ensure a safer road environment for all.
