Hyderabad Rings in the New Year with Strict Traffic Rules
Hyderabad celebrated the New Year 2025 with grand festivities, but the celebrations came with strict enforcement of traffic and safety rules. On Tuesday night, the police implemented a strict “No Drunk and Drive” policy to ensure public safety. Special attention was also given to monitoring pubs and bars for drug use during the celebrations.
To curb drunk driving, the police set up checkpoints at major intersections across the city. Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol were detained immediately. Restaurants and pubs were instructed in advance to arrange transportation for patrons who consumed alcohol during the New Year’s celebrations.
The Hyderabad, Cyberabad, and Rachakonda police commissionerates, along with the traffic police, had issued warnings ahead of time. Offenders caught driving under the influence would face heavy penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act. First-time offenders could be fined Rs 10,000 and face up to six months in jail, while repeat offenders could face Rs 15,000 in fines and up to two years’ imprisonment.
Police also stated that driving licenses would be confiscated depending on the severity of the violation. In cases where drunk driving resulted in fatalities, offenders could face criminal charges and up to 10 years of imprisonment. The drunk driving checks began at 8 p.m. on Tuesday and continued across all major roads in the city.
To ensure thorough monitoring, the Hyderabad traffic police stationed teams at 172 key junctions and intersections identified as high-risk areas. Additional restrictions were put in place at popular spots such as Tank Bund, Necklace Road, NTR Marg, and Jubilee Hills. These restrictions were enforced between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. to manage large crowds and control traffic.
Meanwhile, the state Excise and Enforcement wing conducted random inspections at pubs to prevent drug use and other illegal activities. Police emphasized that the focus was not only on traffic violations but also on maintaining law and order throughout the city during the celebrations.
