Punjab Police's Aggressive Campaign Against Drunk-Driving

Punjab Police have announced comprehensive measures to curb road accidents caused by drunk-driving. ADGP Amardeep Singh Rai outlined steps including the procurement of new alcometers, advanced interceptor vehicles, and collaborative efforts to tackle stray cattle-related accidents. Additionally, initiatives to reduce underage driving have been highlighted.

The Punjab Police will set up special checkpoints on national and state highways to curb incidents of drunk-driving, said a senior police officer on Tuesday.

Additional Director General of Police (Traffic and Road Safety), Amardeep Singh Rai, announced that 800 new alcometers will be distributed across districts. Drunk-driving is a major factor in road accidents, and the Punjab Police will take strict action against individuals driving under the influence of alcohol, he stated.

ADGP Rai also revealed that 27 hi-tech interceptor vehicles are being procured to address over-speeding and reckless driving. He emphasized the issue of road accidents caused by stray cattle, which account for approximately 350 deaths annually. Various departments, including municipal corporations and animal husbandry, are working to resolve this issue.

Additionally, 900 e-challan machines have been provided to districts under a recently launched system in Punjab, aiming to further reduce road accidents. Rai highlighted the deployment of the Sadak Surakhya Force, leading to a 15-20 percent decrease in road accident fatalities. On underage driving, the traffic wing will collaborate with school managements to educate students on legal provisions, with strict action planned for underage drivers and their parents.

(With inputs from agencies.)