The increase is even more alarming if one were to compare the data with 2023 figures, when only 562 cases were registered
It’s unfortunate that even after the Porsche incident (in 2024), city police have been unable to clamp down. “Just last month, the police actually recommended suspension or cancellation of around 1,700 driving licences for serious traffic violations, including drunk driving. Residents of NIBM Road Annexe, barely 3 km away, have also been complaining about late-evening disturbances caused by people under the influence of alcohol,” he said.
Police officials TOI spoke to said the Jan-Aug numbers are indeed worrisome. “This year’s figures exceed those of all previous years,” said additional commissioner of police, Manoj Patil. Lives are at risk,” he said. He said that last month he was almost assaulted by a group travelling in a car after he confronted them. And I have hardly ever seen police patrols in the area,” he said. Animesh Sherkha, a Koregaon Park resident, said drunk driving was commonplace in the area, despite police presence. A retired RTO official TOI spoke to said a critical countermeasure could be cancellation of driving licences. In my view, the state government should consider allowing authorities to permanently cancel the licences of anyone caught driving under the influence, without the possibility of reissuance,” the retired official said, adding that such measures could be backed by tougher penalties, including vehicle confiscation, higher fines and imprisonment.
“We have been working to control drunk driving, but our efforts have to be intensified, with greater emphasis on night patrols and random checks. This is a serious offence. “Bystanders came to my rescue. This group stopped the car, surrounded me and threatened to beat me up. Even their speech was slurring. “It’s indeed a problem, given the number of bars and restaurants here. Salunke Vihar Road resident Atul Pirodkar highlighted another concern: open drinking near liquor shops. “A good example is the shop near my house. I see people drinking in the open every day. Surely, the police are aware of the problem.