Drunk driving? Hyderabad traffic cops plan employer alert

Hyderabad Traffic Police will soon inform employers of motorists caught driving under the influence as part of a tougher deterrent against drunk driving, aiming to curb repeat offences and improve road safety under the ‘Arrive Alive’ campaign

Hyderabad: In a move aimed at tightening road safety measures, the Hyderabad Traffic Police are preparing to introduce a tougher deterrent against drunk driving by informing employers of offenders caught driving under the influence.

The initiative, according to officials, is part of the strategy to counter the growing casual attitude among motorists who assume that a drunk-driving offence results only in a fine or brief counselling.

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According to police authorities, the decision was taken in view of the alarming number of road accidents allegedly linked to alcohol consumption and over speeding. Despite repeated awareness campaigns and enforcement drives, violations continue at an unacceptably high rate, prompting police to explore stronger corrective measures.

It is learnt that the initiative will be implemented from March. During drunk-driving checks, offenders will be required to disclose details of their workplace, including the name and address of their organisation. These details will then be officially communicated to the employer concerned, highlighting the violation.

Police officials believe the measure would act as a powerful psychological deterrent. “Many people are overconfident that they can drive safely even after consuming alcohol. They fail to realise the serious impact alcohol has on brain function, reaction time and judgment,” a senior traffic official said.

The move comes as part of the city police’s ongoing road safety campaign ‘Arrive Alive’, which focuses on accident prevention through enforcement, education and public awareness. Traffic police are conducting drunk-driving checks and awareness sessions at 15 to 20 locations across the city every day.

Police officials also observed that many offenders usually overlook the consequences their actions could have on their families, especially when they are primary earners. By linking traffic violations to workplace accountability, they hope to curb drunk driving.