In a major road safety initiative, Haryana Police have exposed Gurgaon as the epicenter of drunk driving within the state. A massive enforcement drive conducted from January 1 to November 24 this year has resulted in a staggering 63,073 challans being issued for driving under the influence across Haryana.
Gurgaon Leads with Alarming Numbers
The data reveals a stark concentration of offenses in the state's corporate hub. Gurgaon alone recorded 24,972 drunk-driving challans, a figure that dwarfs other districts and underscores the challenges posed by its dense nightlife and heavy evening traffic flows. Faridabad secured the second position with 7,402 cases, while Karnal, a crucial transit point on National Highway 44, registered 4,851 infractions.
Intensified Police Strategy and Enforcement
The police have attributed these high numbers to a strategic and intensified monitoring campaign. A police spokesperson confirmed that the force has been conducting regular special drives focused not only on drunk driving but also on other violations like lane indiscipline, noise pollution, and the illegal use of red-blue flashlights.
To bolster this effort, special police teams are now deployed at all toll plazas in Haryana from 6 pm to 10 pm. These teams are equipped with alco-sensors and e-challan machines to facilitate immediate action against offenders. The police headquarters is using weekly review reports to push for more effective, result-oriented enforcement in all districts.
A Shift Towards Shared Responsibility
While enforcement is rigorous, officials emphasize that the ultimate goal is behavioral change, not just penalty collection. In a significant policy shift, the Director General of Police, O P Singh, announced about a fortnight ago that bars and clubs can now be held accountable if their patrons drive away intoxicated.
Establishments are now mandated to ensure that inebriated customers do not get behind the wheel. This can be achieved by monitoring patrons, arranging cabs or designated drivers, and even coordinating with the police if necessary. Singh also stated that police personnel would be posted outside liquor shops to prevent drinking and immediate driving.
DGP Singh clarified that this campaign is not about random harassment but is a calculated effort to balance Gurgaon's vibrant nightlife with crucial public safety concerns. The police continue to appeal to citizens to drive responsibly and treat safe driving as a personal safety shield for themselves and others on the road.
