Bengaluru: If you drink and drive in Karnataka, you could lose your driving licence immediately. The state transport department has intensified enforcement against traffic violations in 2025, suspending as many as 5,947 driving licences across the state between April and November. Officials said the move reflects a zero-tolerance approach towards dangerous driving behaviour, particularly drunken driving, which continues to pose a major threat to road safety.
Bengaluru Urban tops suspension list
Among all regions, the Bengaluru Urban division recorded the highest number of licence suspensions, accounting for 4,479 cases. Transport officials attributed this to the high volume of vehicles, dense traffic conditions, and increased enforcement in the city. With Bengaluru witnessing a surge in nightlife, late-night travel, and festive gatherings, violations related to alcohol consumption have remained consistently high.
Officials said the numbers are expected to increase further as checks were intensified during the Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve. Special drives were carried out across major junctions, nightlife hubs, and arterial roads during late hours to deter motorists from driving under the influence.
Drunken driving main cause for suspensions
Drunken driving emerged as the single largest reason for licence suspension during the period. Out of the total 5,947 licences suspended statewide, 4,735 were cancelled specifically for drinking and driving offences. Authorities said this accounted for nearly 80% of all suspension cases.
Transport department officials stressed that the strict action is not meant to be punitive alone but preventive in nature. “Drunken driving endangers not just the driver but pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Suspending licences is one of the most effective ways to prevent repeat offences,” a senior official said.
The department noted that many road accidents resulting in serious injuries or fatalities involve alcohol consumption, especially during late-night hours and weekends.
Hundreds of cases still under review
Apart from confirmed suspensions, as many as 1,512 cases involving rash driving, negligent riding, overspeeding, and other serious traffic violations are currently pending with Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). These cases were referred by the traffic police and are awaiting final decisions.
Officials said each case is examined individually before action is taken. Depending on the severity of the violation, the driving licence can be suspended for a period ranging from three months to six months. In certain cases, repeat offenders may face longer suspensions or additional penalties.
How the suspension process works
According to the transport department, the suspension process begins when traffic police detect a serious violation such as drunken driving or dangerous riding. The violation report is then forwarded to the concerned RTO, along with supporting documents such as breath analyser results, medical reports, or CCTV evidence.
The RTO initiates proceedings by issuing a notice to the offender. In some cases, motorists are given an opportunity to be heard before a final decision is taken. Based on police reports, the offender’s reply, and past records, the RTO passes an order suspending the licence for a specified duration.
Officials clarified that in cases of clear drunken driving, licences are often referred for immediate suspension without delay.
Standing instructions to intensify checks
To strengthen enforcement, standing instructions have been issued to all 53 traffic police stations in Bengaluru city to intensify vehicle checks, particularly during weekends, late-night hours, and festive periods. Special focus has been placed on areas with pubs, bars, highways, and accident-prone junctions.
Traffic police officials said there is zero tolerance when it comes to drinking and driving. “Once an offender is caught, the licence is referred for suspension without exception. The idea is to send a strong message that such behaviour will not be tolerated,” an officer said.
Aim is accident reduction, say officials
The transport department maintains that strict enforcement is essential to instil discipline among motorists and reduce the number of road accidents caused by irresponsible driving. Karnataka has consistently reported a high number of accidents linked to alcohol consumption, particularly in urban centres.
Officials said awareness campaigns alone are not sufficient and must be backed by firm action. “People must understand that driving is a responsibility. Losing a licence for a few months is far better than losing a life,” an official added.
The department has also urged citizens to cooperate with enforcement agencies and make use of alternative transport options such as cabs or public transport if they plan to consume alcohol.
Conclusion
With nearly 6,000 driving licences already suspended in just eight months, Karnataka’s intensified crackdown signals a tougher stance on traffic violations, especially drunken driving. While Bengaluru Urban leads the list, authorities warn that enforcement will continue across the state without relaxation. Officials hope that consistent action, combined with public awareness, will help reduce accidents and make roads safer for everyone.