New Year drunk driving: Vehicles to be seized, six months jail, warns CP Sajjanar

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Police Commissioner Sajjanar warned that police will seize vehicles and jail offenders for up to six months if they catch them during New Year drunk driving checks. Police have intensified security arrangements across the city ahead of the celebrations.

Addressing officers via video conference from the Telangana Integrated Command Control Center on Tuesday, Sajjanar said police will conduct special enforcement drives from Wednesday until January 1. The measures coincide with Christmas, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and New Year celebrations.

Police will conduct drunk driving checks at 100 locations across Hyderabad on the night of December 31. Authorities will deploy seven platoons of additional forces for the operation. Sajjanar said police will not tolerate driving after consuming alcohol beyond the prescribed limit.

He said offenders caught during the New Year checks will face vehicle seizure, a fine of ₹10,000, and a jail term of up to six months. He also warned that police will act strictly against racing, wheeling, and rash driving on city roads.

New Year drunk driving checks to cover bars and party venues

Sajjanar said bars, clubs, pubs, event venues, and three-star and above hotels may operate only until 1 am on December 31. He added that wine shops can sell liquor only until midnight.

To ensure women’s safety, police will deploy 15 She Teams in mufti across crowded areas, party venues, and major junctions during the celebrations.

Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) M. Srinivasulu, Deputy Commissioners of Police Shweta, Rakshita Murthy, Rupesh, and other senior officers took part in the video conference.