Strict action for New Year violations; special drunk driving checks from Wednesday

Warning that excesses will not be tolerated in the name of New Year celebrations, Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar on Tuesday announced special enforcement measures across the city, including intensifying drunk driving checks from Wednesday to New Year’s Day.

Presiding over a video conference with field level officers at the Telangana Integrated Command Control Center in Banjara Hills, the Commissioner said stringent action will be taken against those who create nuisance on the roads, drive rashly, race or wheel, or violate public order during the festive period. He said those driving under the influence of alcohol would face impoundment of the vehicle, a fine of ₹ 10,000, six months’ imprisonment and even permanent cancellation of their driving licence.

As part of the New Year’s implementation plan, alcoholic vehicle checks will be carried out at 100 locations across the city on the night of December 31, and seven additional detachments will be assigned for this purpose. The Commissioner advised revelers attending parties to arrange designated drivers or avail taxi services.

Reviewing security arrangements for Christmas, Vaikuntha Ekadashi and New Year celebrations, Mr. Sajjanar instructed officers to ensure that bandobast is intact across the city. He directed that personnel be deployed at sensitive locations, crime hotspots based on historical data and populated areas while maintaining constant surveillance on known criminals to prevent untoward incidents.

Clear guidelines have also been issued for organizations hosting the celebrations. The Commissioner said that New Year events to be held in bars and hotels of three stars and above will be allowed only until 1 o’clock on the night of December 31. Sound pollution norms must be strictly followed when it comes to which sound systems will be confiscated. He warned that venue managements would be held responsible if ganja or other drugs were used or obscene performances were allowed, and that licenses would be revoked and criminal cases would be filed in such cases.

Emphasizing the safety of women, the official said that 15 EHS Teams in civilian clothes will closely inspect crowded areas, party venues and main intersections. He said anyone behaving inappropriately with women would be arrested immediately.

Stating that New Year celebrations should remain “sweet memories, not bitter experiences”, Mr. Sajjanar called on citizens to respect the laws and start 2026 safely.

Additional Commissioner of Police (Crimes) M. Srinivasulu and several Deputy Commissioners of Police and other senior officials of Hyderabad police commissionerate attended the video conference.