Private bus operators in Bengaluru are flagging a persistent and dangerous trend, reporting between 30 to 40 cases of drivers under the influence of alcohol every single month. This alarming data, shared by industry insiders, highlights a significant gap in safety protocols, particularly among smaller transport companies.
Large Operators Use Checks, Small Ones Often Skip
The approach to preventing drunk driving varies drastically across the industry. Most large and organised bus companies have implemented mandatory breathalyser tests for their drivers. These tests are conducted both before the commencement of a journey and at scheduled stops en route. This protocol is designed to ensure driver fitness and passenger safety from start to finish.
However, this crucial safety measure is frequently absent in the operations of smaller private operators. Due to lax enforcement or a lack of structured policy, many drivers for these companies are not subjected to regular alcohol checks. This creates a dangerous loophole in the system.
The Mid-Journey Alcohol Risk
Industry sources reveal a troubling pattern where drivers often obtain alcohol during their trips. Long-haul routes and breaks at specific points provide opportunities for drivers to consume alcohol after their initial pre-departure check, if one was even conducted.
The severity of the issue is underscored by the recorded blood alcohol content (BAC) levels in some of these reported cases. Shockingly, some drivers have been found with alcohol levels exceeding twice the legal permissible limit for driving in India. This dramatically increases the risk of catastrophic accidents, endangering the lives of passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.
A Call for Uniform Safety Standards
The consistent monthly reports of 30-40 drunk drivers point to a systemic problem that demands urgent attention. The disparity in safety practices between large and small operators suggests that voluntary measures are insufficient.
This situation calls for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and possibly the introduction of uniform, mandatory safety protocols for all commercial passenger vehicle operators. Ensuring that every driver, regardless of the size of their employer, is screened effectively before and during duty is a critical step towards making roads safer for everyone. The data, first reported on 04 December 2025, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge.
