Visakhapatnam: Visakhapatnam witnessed a worrying 58% surge in drunk driving cases in 2024 compared to the previous year, according to data released by the city police commissionerate. Between January 1 and December 22, 33,707 cases of drunk driving were prosecuted, a sharp rise from 21,376 in 2023 and 9,667 in 2022.
While Vizag city saw a marginal decline in road crashes caused by drunk driving, tipsy driving incidents now account for 6–10% of the total road accidents reported in the city. On average, 70–90 drunk driving cases are recorded daily, posing significant risks to road safety.
A major concern highlighted by officials is the age profile of offenders, with 40% of them falling in the 20–35 age bracket. “This trend is alarming and requires stronger measures to curb the issue,” said a senior traffic police officer.
City police chief Shanka Brata Bagchi stated that the department has intensified its efforts to tackle tipsy driving through rigorous enforcement and awareness campaigns. Offenders paid fines totaling Rs 11.05 crore in 2024, while some faced two-to-three-day jail terms or were assigned community service to create traffic safety awareness.
Authorities urge citizens to prioritize safety and avoid drunk driving to prevent further tragedies.
