New Year safety: CP Sajjanar warns of strict action on drunk driving

With New Year celebrations around the corner, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar has warned that strict action will be taken against anyone violating traffic rules or causing disturbances on the roads.

From Wednesday until New Year’s Day, the police will conduct a special enforcement drive across the city targeting drunk driving. During a video conference with field officers at the Telangana Integrated Command and Control Center (TICC) in Banjara Hills, the Commissioner outlined security plans for Christmas and New Year events.

Commissioner Sajjanar instructed officials to ensure robust safety measures during the festive period and to maintain extra vigilance in high-risk areas and past crime hotspots. On December 31, the police will carry out checks for drunk driving at 100 locations across the city, deploying seven additional platoons to support the effort.

He warned that anyone caught driving under the influence will face strict penalties: vehicles will be seized, fines of up to ₹10,000 imposed, and offenders could face six months in jail. Permanent suspension of driving licenses is also on the table. Sajjanar advised partygoers to arrange a designated driver or use cab services to avoid violations. He added that extreme cases like street racing, stunt driving, or wheelies will be dealt with severely.

Nightclubs, pubs, and hotel parties will be allowed to operate only until 1 a.m. on December 31, and sound pollution limits must be strictly followed. Organizers who fail to comply could face seizure of sound equipment. Any illegal drug use or inappropriate dance activities at events will result in criminal cases and license cancellations.

Special arrangements have been made for women’s safety, with 15 SHE Teams monitoring crowded areas, party venues, and junctions. The Commissioner emphasized that anyone misbehaving towards women will be immediately arrested. Citizens are urged to respect the law and celebrate safely as the city welcomes 2026.