Traffic Police Increases Nakabandis, Surprise Check Ups Amid Surge In Drunk Driving Cases

In 2024, the number surged to 4,196 between January to July.

Date: August 5, 2024

The Mumbai traffic police have increased the frequency of nakabandis at various roads and junctions to keep a tab on motorists effectively.

This development came as there is a significant rise in the number of drink and drive cases.

Last year, between January and July, only 447 individuals were penalised for driving under the influence. However, in 2024, the number has surged to 4,196 for the same period.

The hotspots for such cases include Sahar (288), Sakinaka (264), DN Nagar (244), Santacruz (234), Nagpada (230), Trombay (228), Oshiwara (187), Mulund (185), MIDC (178), Vakola (170), Dahisar (164), Ghatkopar (164).

It is pertinent to note that these areas have a high concentration of bars and restaurants, contributing to the elevated numbers of drunk driving cases.

Moreover, according to data revealed by the city traffic police, the lowest number of drunk driving cases are: Powai (0), Dharavi (0), Marine Drive (2), Pydhonie (5), Kanjurmarg (6), Wadala (14), Mahim (14), Matunga (15), Colaba (17), Antop Hill (17), Kurla (19), Worli (22).

Explaining the reason, an official said that it’s not because people do not consume alcohol in these areas. It can be because either they walk back home instead of driving, or use public transport like cabs, autos, etc. In areas like Marine Drive and Colaba, many vehicles have designated drivers, which is a safe way towards traffic discipline.

When asked about the challenges they face during nakabandi nights, several police officers mentioned the “over smartness” of motorists. “They know exactly where we (traffic police) are standing for checks, and somehow this information spreads among other motorists. The next thing we know, they are taking narrow lanes to evade us. This year, we are expanding our hotspot areas to include junctions and placing officers on adjoining routes to catch offenders,” said a traffic police officer.

Echoing this, another officer added, “Before selecting restaurants or bars in the area, motorists inquire about the timings and locations of nakabandis. To counter this, we now conduct surprise check-ups and nakabandis at the local level to outsmart the motorists!”With such surprise check-ups and nakabandis, the traffic police aim to ensure there are fewer accidents caused by driving under the influence.