Most drunk drivers detected on NH

Bhubaneswar: Most of the drunk driving incidents took place on national highways, according to police sources. The transport department said both police and regional transport offices (RTOs) are conducting regular crackdowns on drunk drivers.“We are adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards drunk driving. In addition to consistent enforcement efforts, we are also focussing on raising public awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and the legal consequences involved,” said state transport commissioner Amitabh Thakur.A senior police officer said: “We have issued stern warnings against drunk driving. If a fatal accident occurs while driving under the influence of alocohol, the driver may face prosecution under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.

Such offences are treated as culpable homicide, not amounting to murder, with penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and fines.”To enhance enforcement, Odisha police plan to introduce non-invasive baton breathalyzer testing for detecting alcohol consumption among drivers, according to sources. This new method may replace the current practice of requiring drivers to blow into straws, offering a more convenient and hygienic solution for both officers and motorists. These digital alcohol testing devices, designed like batons, can remotely detect breath samples, thereby minimizing the risk of disease transmission between officers and those being tested.