New Year 2026: Cyberabad traffic police enforce strict rules for cabs, drunk driving, party venues
The advisory outlines responsibilities for establishments serving alcohol and the general public, with severe penalties announced for violations
By - Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: Ahead of the New Year 2026 celebrations, the Cyberabad Traffic Police have issued strict instructions to cab, taxi and auto-rickshaw operators, making it mandatory for drivers to wear proper uniforms and carry all valid documents at all times.
Any refusal to ferry passengers will attract penalties under Section 178 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Public reach out on WhatsApp about complaints over refusal to ply
The police warned that complaints related to refusal to ply can be reported through WhatsApp at 9490617346, along with details of the vehicle, time and place. Overcharging, misbehaviour with passengers, or demanding excess fares will also invite strict legal action.
To ensure accountability, commuters have been urged to report violations by contract carriage operators. The Traffic Police said actionable complaints with clear details will result in the immediate issuance of e-challans against erring drivers.
Zero tolerance for overcharging and misbehaviour
Authorities cautioned drivers against demanding fares beyond prescribed rates or engaging in any form of misbehaviour with passengers. Such violations will be dealt with firmly as part of the New Year enforcement drive.
The police have issued a comprehensive traffic advisory, warning of strict enforcement against drunk driving, traffic violations, and public nuisance in the interest of road safety and public order.
The advisory outlines responsibilities for establishments serving alcohol and the general public, with severe penalties announced for violations.
Bars, pubs and clubs carry responsibility for drunken drivers
Bars, pubs and clubs will be held accountable if they knowingly or negligently allow intoxicated customers to drive after consuming alcohol on their premises. Such establishments will face prosecution for abetment under relevant laws.
Managements have been directed to educate customers on the dangers of drunk driving, make alternative travel arrangements, and prevent intoxicated persons from driving vehicles from their premises.
Severe penalties for drunk driving
Drunk driving cases will be booked under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and offenders will be produced before the court.
For the first offence, violators face a fine of Rs 10,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment, while repeat offenders may face a Rs 15,000 fine and/or up to two years imprisonment.
Driving licences will be seized and sent to the RTO for suspension—three months for the first offence and permanent revocation for subsequent offences.
In cases where drunk driving leads to a fatal accident, police will register criminal cases under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the accused will be arrested and sent to jail.
Tight surveillance and enforcement across Cyberabad
Special cameras have been installed across the Cyberabad limits to detect violations such as wrong-side driving, unauthorised parking, overspeeding, signal jumping, rash driving and riding without helmets.
Extensive drunk-driving checks will be conducted on all major roads from 8 pm onwards. Vehicles may be taken into temporary safe custody if drivers fail to produce valid documents.
Traffic Police emphasised that motorists must stop when instructed and cooperate during checks. Obstruction of police duties will lead to legal action.
Zero tolerance for dangerous driving and nuisance
Authorities warned of strict action against minor driving, driving without a valid licence, triple or multiple riding, excessive honking, overcrowding of vehicles, travelling on rooftops and creating public nuisance.
Vehicles using high-decibel sound systems, running without number plates or involved in dangerous driving will be detained and referred to the RTO for further action. Citizens will have to arrange alternative transport in case of vehicle seizure.
Public urged to drive responsibly
The Cyberabad Traffic Police appealed to citizens to exercise caution, take personal responsibility, follow traffic rules and ensure a safe and incident-free New Year celebration.
