Zero Tolerance For Zero Night Celebrations In Odisha; STA To Cancel Licence Of Drunk Drivers

Bhubaneswar: As Odisha gets ready for New Year celebrations, the police and transport authorities are taking stringent measures, particularly in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, to ensure safety and security of revellers.

Officials have made it clear that strict action will be taken against those who violate the zero-hour restrictions. Partygoers have been advised to refrain from driving after consuming alcohol. They should opt for designated drivers or public transport instead.

Driving under the influence of alcohol will lead to cancellation of license and a hefty fine will also be imposed. Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur has informed that some such rules will be implemented to punish drivers who violate the rules by speeding and recklessly.

If the driver of the vehicle violating the rules does not cooperate in providing identification, all the details will be sought from the owner of the vehicle concerned. If he fails to provide it, a case will be registered against the driver under the Motor Vehicles Act. The decision in this regard has been taken by the State Transport Authority (STA) and a strict inspection will be conducted at midnight.

Strict action will be taken against road safety violations such as drunk driving and speeding in the name of celebrating the New Year. The Transport Department has issued instructions to all Regional Transport Officers (RTO) in this regard.

On the other hand, Road Safety Week will be observed across the state from January 1. Therefore, such special enforcement drives will start from zero hour and continue till January 7.

There will be rigorous checking against drunk driving in forest areas. SOPs have also been issued so that vehicles coming to tourist destinations comply with all safety rules.

Similarly, it has been decided to check near schools and colleges against driving by minors. Along with this, checks related to motor vehicle insurance will also be done.