Noida traffic police detained 30 people for drunken driving, seized 6 cars

NOIDA: To ensure road safety during the festive season, the Noida police on Friday night launched a campaign to check drunk drivers at the Garden Galleria mall, fining 30 people and impounding six vehicles for violating the rules, taking the total number of challans to 243 for such offenses until 2024.

Police tested about 70 drivers with a breathalyzer and also checked them for compliance with other traffic rules, they said on Saturday.

“As festivals and gatherings continue to grow, it is imperative that strict drink driving laws are enforced. We aim to raise public awareness and increase responsibility among motorists. The action last night (Friday) at the Garden Galleria is a reminder that we are committed to taking strict action against such violations,” said Yamuna Prasad, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Noida.

Undoubtedly, areas like Sector 18 and Gardens Galleria Mall in Sector 38 are hot spots filled with lively pubs, bars and lounges apart from Sector 32, Sector 104 etc.

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

In 2023, during the same period, Noida recorded 336 deaths and 610 injuries in 852 accidents. The traffic police fined 369 khal for driving while intoxicated.

The penalty for drink driving under section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 includes a fine of ₹10,000 or imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months or both for the first offence. Second and subsequent offenses (within three years after the first) carry a fine of up to ₹15,000, imprisonment for up to two years and suspension of driving licence, officers said.

“Gautam Budh Nagar Police is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens and actions that threaten their lives will not be tolerated. The campaign is a reminder to drivers to obey the rules and prioritize safety,” said Lakshmi Singh, District Commissioner of Police, Gautam Budh Nagar.

Meanwhile, the Noida Police has appealed to the general public to designate drivers for the return journey in case they plan to consume alcohol during this festive season.