Pune: In response to the increasing number of accidents in Pune, the police have made a significant decision. They have proposed to the court that driving licenses be revoked immediately for those caught driving under the influence of alcohol. This proposal comes after a marked increase in accidents due to drunk driving, despite fines and penalties.
Currently, first-time offenders caught driving under the influence face a fine of ₹10,000, while repeat offenders face a ₹20,000 fine and possible imprisonment.
In recent days, Pune has witnessed several severe accidents, many of which have been linked to drunk driving. Notably, a Porsche driver in Kalyani Nagar hit two engineers, and just two days ago, another drunk driver struck two police officers. These incidents have prompted the police to take a more stringent stance.
A specific incident that highlighted the issue occurred on the Pune-Mumbai highway, where a drunk driver hit two patrolling police officers and then went home to sleep. This incident, among others, has showcased the growing audacity of such offenders, leading to demands for stricter action.
A day before, another tragic hit-and-run incident at Swargate claimed the life of 34-year-old Chartered Accountant Sagar Suresh Mantri on July 9 morning. The accident occurred at the grade separator in Swargate, has raised serious concerns about road safety in the area.
The absence of CCTV cameras at the grade separator has made it difficult to determine the exact circumstances of the accident. Footage from cameras on either side of the grade separator has been seized for further investigation.
The police's proposal to revoke licenses aims to further deter such behavior and reduce the number of accidents caused by drunk driving. It remains to be seen whether the court will approve this stringent measure.
