Drunk Driving Fines Soar Past Rs 1 Crore In Chittoor District
Tirupati:Despite a sustained crackdown by the Chittoor district police on traffic violations, drunk driving menace continues unabated. Police officials say active public cooperation is a must to ensure road safety.
From April 11 last year to April 10 this year, fines amounting to Rs 1,01,52,500 have been imposed on drunk drivers. Led by SP Manikanta Chandolu, the police have taken a tough stand on traffic violations. In 2024 alone, 651 individuals were caught driving under the influence of liquor. The fines totalled `65.1 lakh. However, officials say penalties alone will not do.
“The goal is not just to penalise, but to protect lives,” said traffic inspector Nithya Babu. “We need the public to see traffic rules as safeguards, not a burden. Without their cooperation, our efforts will fall short.”
He said the recurring violations signalled a deeper issue —public indifference to safety regulations. Despite regular checks and stringent penalties, the number of cases remained high.
Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act prescribes a `10,000 fine or six months’ imprisonment, or both, for first-time drunk driving offences. Repeat offenders face harsher penalties, including up to `15,000 in fines and three years’ jail. Inspector Nithya Babu said. “The public must follow rules.”
The district police urged citizens to wear helmets and seatbelts, avoid mobile phone use while driving and abstain from alcohol use while or before driving.
