Gurgaon: Soon, your driving licence may be suspended if you are caught doing this on the road

The district administration has decided to enforce stricter action against drunk driving. Until now, such violations were penalised with challans, but officials are now considering licence suspensions ranging from three to six months for first-time offenders and permanent cancellation for repeat offenders, as provided under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a TOI report stated.

The move comes as part of broader steps to reduce accidents and fatalities. In the first half of 2025, the city recorded 541 accidents leading to 223 deaths. Drunk driving was cited as a major cause. Police data shows over 5,000 challans were issued for alcohol-related offences until September, compared to 25,968 in 2024 and 5,181 in 2023.

Offences concentrated around party hubs

Police said most drunk driving cases took place near popular party spots such as Sector 29, Cyber Park, MG Road, Golf Course Road, and 32 Avenue. Deployment has been regular in areas like Mall Mile, Ambience Mall, Galleria Market, and Sector 29 Huda Market. Officials believe that stricter fines and licence suspensions will act as a deterrent.

Deputy commissioner stresses enforcement

During a recent road safety meeting, deputy commissioner Ajay Kumar said, "Norms for licence suspension are already in place. These must be implemented rigorously to curb drink and drive cases." Section 185 of the MV Act states that first-time offenders may face a fine of up to Rs 10,000, six months' imprisonment, or both. Repeat offences within three years may lead to a Rs 15,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, and permanent cancellation of the licence.

Stricter rules for licences

The administration also plans to tighten the process of issuing driving licences. "All SDMs should monitor the licence-making procedure in their areas to ensure compliance with safety norms," Kumar said.

Steps to improve road conditions

Departments have been asked to identify accident-prone stretches and take corrective measures. These include tree pruning, maintenance of T-junctions and U-turns, and installation of reflectors ahead of the winter season to improve visibility.

Officials said public awareness campaigns will remain a key part of the strategy. Kumar added that understanding traffic rules and following them can reduce accidents. Police have also been told to design action plans against overspeeding and risky driving, along with the drive against drunk driving.

Authorities noted that drunk driving checks had been irregular, limited to weekends or special campaigns, before regular enforcement resumed in September 2022. Sustained vigilance, they said, will be critical to ensuring road safety.