Wed Sep 18 04:36:55 UTC 2024: ## Telangana Cracks Down on Traffic Violations, Suspends Thousands of Licenses

**Hyderabad:** The Telangana Transport Department has taken a hard stance against traffic violations, suspending a staggering 6,916 driving licenses between April 1 and August 31, 2024. The suspensions were primarily for serious offences including speeding, drunk driving, and driving on the wrong side of the road.

The move comes amidst alarming road safety statistics in the state, with an average of 20 people dying in road accidents daily over the past five years. The majority of victims are between 25 and 45 years old, highlighting the devastating impact on the working-age population.

**Intensified Crackdowns:**

The Hyderabad traffic police have stepped up efforts to curb drunk driving, booking 4,056 motorists for the offence during a recent drive. In a single day on August 12, 65 drunk drivers were jailed, underscoring the seriousness of the issue. Courts have also imposed fines totaling Rs 76,43,700 on offenders.

**Wrong-side Driving Remains a Threat:**

Despite continuous campaigns, wrong-side driving continues to be a major safety concern. The practice has resulted in 8 deaths and 150 injuries in the past year alone. Although statistics show a slight decrease in 2024, the risk remains high. A recent special drive focused on wrong-side driving resulted in 688 cases being booked.

**Call for Sustained Action:**

The Transport Department and Hyderabad traffic police are committed to promoting road safety through stricter enforcement measures. However, experts emphasize the need for sustained public awareness, strict adherence to traffic rules, and continuous enforcement to ensure safer roads for everyone.

Read More