Noida traffic police challenged 30 people for drunk driving and seized 6 vehicles

NOIDA: To ensure road safety during the festive season, Noida police organized a drive to check drunken driving at Garden Galleria mall on Friday night, penalizing 30 people and impounding six vehicles for violations, taking the total number of challans to 243. for such crimes so far in 2024.

While the police inspected nearly 70 drivers with a breathalyzer test, they also checked whether they obeyed other traffic rules. (Noida Police X)

Police checked about 70 drivers with breathalyzer tests, as well as whether they were following other traffic rules, officers said Saturday.

“With the increase in festivals and gatherings, it is vital that strict rules regarding drink driving are enforced. We aim to raise public awareness and strengthen accountability among drivers. The action that took place at the Garden Galleria last night (Friday) is a reminder that we are determined to implement strict action against such violations,” said Noida deputy commissioner of police (traffic) Yamuna Prasad.

Of course, areas like Gardens Galleria Mall in Sector 18 and Sector 38 are hotspots filled with lively pubs, bars and lounges, as well as Sector 32, Sector 104, among others.

According to Noida traffic police statistics, Noida recorded 331 deaths and 735 injuries in 853 accidents between January and September 2024.

In 2023, a total of 336 deaths and 610 injuries were recorded in 852 accidents in Noida during the same period. Traffic police issued 369 fines for drunk driving.

Penalty for drunk driving under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, ₹10,000 or imprisonment up to six months or both for the first offence. Second and subsequent offenses (within three years from the first offense) ₹Officers said 15,000 people would be punished with up to two years in prison and license suspension.

“Gautam Budh Nagar police is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and actions that endanger lives will not be tolerated. The campaign is a reminder to motorists to follow the rules and prioritize safety,” said Gautam Budh Nagar district police commissioner Laxmi Singh.

Meanwhile, Noida police have appealed to the public to identify motorists who plan to consume alcohol this festive season for their return journey.