Thiruvananthapuram, 16 July (H.S.):Kerala Police booked 2,936 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol during a week-long statewide enforcement drive aimed at improving road safety and reducing accidents caused by drunk driving.

The special campaign, titled Drive Sober – Stay Alive, was conducted by the Traffic and Road Safety Management wing of the Kerala Police between July 8 and July 13. During the operation, police officers inspected 67,979 vehicles across the state to identify offenders and create greater awareness about the dangers of driving after consuming alcohol.

As part of the enforcement action, the police have recommended the suspension of driving licences of 662 offenders. The figures were released by the State Police Media Centre, which said the campaign focused on strict enforcement as well as educating motorists about the potentially fatal consequences of drunk driving.

According to the police, driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of serious road accidents and fatalities. Besides endangering the lives of drivers, such violations pose a significant risk to passengers, pedestrians and other road users. The department said sustained enforcement is essential to reduce preventable road crashes and improve compliance with traffic regulations.

Police have directed highway patrol units to continue intensive vehicle inspections in the coming days and initiate stringent action against repeat offenders. The special drive was carried out under the supervision of the Traffic Zonal Superintendents of Police, with active participation from District Traffic Nodal Officers and Traffic Enforcement Units across Kerala.

The Kerala Police have also appealed to the public to actively support road safety enforcement by reporting traffic violations. Citizens can send photographs, videos or audio recordings of violations through the 'Shubhayathra' WhatsApp helpline (9747001099), along with details such as the district, location, date, time and vehicle registration number. The information will assist authorities in taking prompt action against offenders and strengthening road safety enforcement across the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman