Pune: 606 Drivers Penalized in Holi Drunk Driving Crackdown; 80 Police Teams and 1500 Personnel Deployed Across City
Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad police launched extensive drives to curb drunk driving and traffic violations during Holi celebrations on Friday. The Pune police took action against 334 revellers, while the Pimpri Chinchwad police penalized 272 individuals found driving under the influence of alcohol.
The Pune police deployed 1,500 personnel, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Amol Zende, across 60 checkpoints in the city. Additional Commissioner of Police (East) Manoj Patil stated, “The drive aimed to control irresponsible behaviour and prevent fatal accidents.” The initiative also targeted triple-seat bike riding, wrong-side driving, and speeding in no-entry zones.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Subhash Nikam revealed that 240 breath analysers were distributed across 40 traffic divisions. From 9 am to 6 pm, 200 revellers were penalized for drunk driving. The drive covered key areas like Nagar Road, Mundhwa, Koregaon Park, Vimanagar, Khadki, Chatushrungi, Baner, Deccan Gymkhana, Kothrud, Warje Malwadi, Shivajinagar, Satara Road, Kondhwa, Wanowrie, and Hadapsar.
In Pimpri Chinchwad, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Bapu Bangar reported action against 272 revellers at 25 checkpoints. The police also stationed 80 teams at 50 key locations to monitor drink-and-drive cases and other violations.
Amol Zende emphasized the focus on safe celebrations, with strict enforcement against triple riding, helmetless riding, and stunt biking. The bandobast was conducted in two phases: 11 am to 6 pm and 7 pm to 2 am. Last year, 5,500 actions were taken for traffic violations, while this year, 950 actions were recorded so far.
The Government Railway Police (GRP) also heightened security to prevent colour-filled balloons from being thrown at moving trains. GRP Superintendent Tushar Doshi warned of strict action against violators, with increased patrolling around Pune, Shivajinagar, Lonavla, Chinchwad, and Daund stations.
Authorities urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions that endanger lives. Pune police assured continued vigilance to ensure public safety during the festive period.
