949 motorists caught for drunk driving in Hyderabad, Cyberabad, Malkajgiri

HYDERABAD: In a coordinated crackdown over the weekend, traffic police from Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Malkajgiri booked 949 motorists for drunk driving. The special drive, which spanned Saturday night into early Sunday, was aimed at curbing road accidents caused by inebriated drivers.

According to officials, the three commissionerates deployed additional checkpoints at key junctions, flyovers, and stretches known for late-night traffic. Breath analyser tests were administered to thousands of vehicles, with two-wheelers and private cars accounting for a majority of the violations.

Breakdown of the drive

The Hyderabad traffic police alone registered 320 cases, while Cyberabad recorded 410 and Malkajgiri 219. These numbers reflect a sustained enforcement push, particularly in areas like Begumpet, Jubilee Hills, and Uppal, where pub and restaurant clusters see heavy footfall after dark.

Each offender was issued a challan under the Motor Vehicles Act, and vehicles were seized in several instances. Repeat offenders, sources said, may face stricter action, including suspension of driving licences. However, officials have not yet confirmed the total fines collected or the number of licences suspended.

Rising concern over night accidents

The drive comes amid a worrying trend of fatal accidents linked to drunk driving in the city. Last month, at least two crashes on the Outer Ring Road involved drivers with high blood alcohol content, prompting the police to intensify night patrols.

Traffic experts point out that while such drives act as a deterrent, the real challenge lies in sustaining enforcement. "The frequency of checks matters more than the scale," said a senior traffic official, requesting anonymity. He added that the police are also using data from accident black spots to plan future operations.

Public response and next steps

Reactions from citizens have been mixed. While many welcomed the crackdown, some complained about long queues at checkpoints. "It is inconvenient, but if it saves lives, it is worth it," said a commuter waiting near Madhapur.

The traffic police have announced that similar drives will continue on weekends and during festivals, when alcohol consumption typically rises. They are also considering the use of body-worn cameras to ensure transparency during checks.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use designated drivers or ride-hailing services. With the festive season approaching, enforcement is likely to remain stringent, and the message is clear: if you drink, do not drive.