Bengaluru (Karnataka): In a renewed crackdown on road accidents and late-night offences, the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) have reinstated daily drunk driving (DD) checks, extending the initiative beyond weekends to cover all days of the week.
Routine checks return under new directive
The initiative follows a directive issued in late August by Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Karthik Reddy, who instructed Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) in all four traffic zones to enforce daily checks. According to officials, the move has been gradually rolled out over the past three weeks.
Confirming the development, Gopal M. Byakod, DCP (Traffic-South), said that at least three checkpoints have been set up in each traffic division. The East Division, which covers high-footfall nightlife hubs such as Brigade Road and Church Street, has deployed over 10 checkpoints to handle heavy volumes.
More officers empowered to test motorists
Under the revised protocol, both inspectors and sub-inspectors are now authorised to conduct breathalyser tests. Each enforcement team must include at least one female officer to ensure adherence to protocol and comfort for all motorists during checks.
Tackling corruption concerns with body cameras
Weekday DD checks had been scaled back in previous years amid complaints of bribery and misuse of authority. To address these concerns, since 2023, the BTP has equipped its personnel with compact body cameras.
With all field officers now under real-time surveillance, authorities believe the scope for corruption has been drastically reduced. Every interaction at checkpoints is recorded, adding layers of transparency and accountability to the process.
Focus on safety and crime prevention
Police officials emphasised that the reinstatement of weekday checks is aimed at curbing both road accidents and night-time crimes, which often spike when drunk driving goes unchecked. By making DD checks routine rather than exceptional, authorities hope to instil greater caution among motorists and reduce repeat offences.
Conclusion
With the return of daily drunk driving checks, the Bengaluru Traffic Police have signalled a tougher stance on road safety. Equipped with body cameras, additional checkpoints, and broader officer authorisation, the initiative is expected to improve enforcement, curb reckless driving, and enhance public trust in the system.