Drunk driving cases double as traffic police tighten noose

Raipur: Drunk driving cases in Raipur have more than doubled this year, with 3,510 offenders booked till now in 2026 compared to 1,537 cases registered in the entirety of 2025.Raipur Additional DCP (Traffic) Sanjiv Shukla said the sharp statistical spike reflects intensified on-ground policing rather than an increase in the habit itself.“This is not a temporary drive or a short-term campaign; it is a regular, ongoing enforcement measure,” Shukla said. “Given its critical importance to public safety, constant monitoring and persistent attention are required on a daily basis.”Shukla said the vast majority of road accidents in the city are directly caused by driving under the influence of alcohol.

To curb this, the department has been conducting rigorous surprise breathalyzer checks at least twice a week, and often more frequently, at key transit routes and commercial hubs including Telibandha, Pandri, Mahasamund, Kalibadi and other junctions.Every offender caught faces a court-imposed challan of Rs 10,000.“Alongside the heavy financial penalties, continuous educational initiatives are beginning to show a measurable impact on motorist behavior,” Shukla said.“We are regularly conducting multiple awareness campaigns to educate the public on the fatal risks of drunk driving and the stringent legal punishments involved,” he added.“As a result of this continuous enforcement and awareness, we have noticed a highly positive change on the ground.

A clear pattern is emerging where people, after consuming alcohol, are increasingly opting for cabs or ensuring they have a designated driver.”You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Raipur | Silver Rate in Raipur | Bank Holidays in Raipur | Public Holidays in Raipur | Raipur AQI | Weather in Raipur | Petrol Price in Raipur | Diesel Price in Raipur | CNG Price in Raipur | LPG Price in RaipurStay updated with the latest Raipur news.

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