Udupi: In view of New Year celebrations, Christmas, and other year-end festivities, the Udupi district police carried out a special enforcement drive to ensure road safety and curb traffic violations across the district. The intensive operation, conducted from December 24 to December 31, resulted in the registration of 1,199 cases for various traffic rule violations and the imposition of fines amounting to over Rs 9.4 lakh, according to official data released by the police.
The special drive was undertaken to prevent accidents during a period marked by increased vehicular movement, late-night travel, and social gatherings. District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar said the initiative was aimed at creating awareness among road users while strictly enforcing traffic rules to ensure public safety.
District-wide enforcement with multiple check-posts
As part of the drive, the Udupi district police set up 29 check-posts at key locations across the district. All police officers, including traffic, law and order, and local station personnel, actively participated in the operation.
The check-posts were strategically placed on highways, major junctions, and roads leading to popular religious and tourist destinations, which witness heavy traffic during festival seasons. Vehicles were stopped and checked for compliance with traffic regulations, including the use of helmets and seat belts, sobriety of drivers, and adherence to safety norms.
Police officials said the visible presence of enforcement teams acted as a deterrent to reckless driving and helped in regulating traffic flow during peak hours.
Breakdown of traffic violations detected
Providing details of the violations booked during the eight-day drive, SP Hariram Shankar said that a wide range of offences were detected, reflecting persistent gaps in road safety compliance.
Among the total 1,199 cases registered, as many as 103 cases pertained to drunk driving. Police said drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents, particularly during festive periods when alcohol consumption tends to increase.
The highest number of cases—803—were registered for riding two-wheelers without wearing helmets. Despite repeated awareness campaigns and enforcement drives, helmet compliance continues to be a major concern in the district.
In addition, 243 cases were booked against motorists for driving without wearing seat belts. Police officials emphasised that seat belts are a critical safety feature that significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
The drive also led to the detection of 35 cases of triple riding on two-wheelers, a practice that not only violates traffic rules but also poses serious safety risks. Another 15 cases were registered for using mobile phones while driving, which police said is a growing menace contributing to distracted driving and accidents.
Fines imposed and official clarification
According to the superintendent of police, fines totalling Rs 9,42,600 were imposed during the special drive. Earlier estimates had placed the total fine amount at over Rs 9.6 lakh, but police clarified that the final consolidated figure stood at approximately Rs 9.42 lakh based on records compiled after the completion of the operation.
Officials said the fines were imposed strictly as per the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act and related rules, and offenders were counselled on the importance of following traffic norms.
Focus on prevention and awareness
SP Hariram Shankar said the objective of the drive was not merely punitive, but also preventive. “Festival seasons often see a spike in accidents due to over-speeding, drunk driving, and non-compliance with safety rules. Such special drives are meant to remind road users that safety cannot be compromised,” he said.
Police personnel also took the opportunity to educate motorists about the consequences of traffic violations, particularly drunk driving and riding without protective gear. In several cases, drivers were warned and advised in addition to being fined.
Road safety a continuing priority
The Udupi district police have been conducting regular traffic enforcement drives throughout the year, with special emphasis during festivals, weekends, and tourist seasons. Officials said similar drives will continue in the coming months to ensure sustained compliance with traffic rules.
Police also urged citizens to cooperate with enforcement agencies and to view such drives as measures taken in public interest rather than as inconvenience. “Every helmet worn and every seat belt fastened can save a life,” an officer said.
Conclusion
The special traffic enforcement drive conducted across Udupi district during the year-end festive season underscores the police department’s commitment to road safety. With 1,199 cases booked and over Rs 9.4 lakh collected as fines, the operation highlights both the scale of traffic violations and the need for greater public awareness. As celebrations continue throughout the year, authorities have reiterated that strict enforcement and responsible behaviour by road users are essential to prevent accidents and save lives.