Bhubaneswar, May 7: In a state-wide joint drive against drunk driving by Odisha Police and Transport Department more than 3000 drivers were subjected to breath analyser test on Friday night.

In the night long drive a total of 466 drivers were detected driving under influence of alcohol. In accordance with the directives of the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety a total of 179 driving licenses (DLs) were suspended. Police and RTO staff detained 377 vehicles of the offenders. In strict action 378 drunk drivers were arrested by Police.

The September 2019 amendment of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 mentions that in the case of drunken driving, first-time offenders will face imprisonment up to six months and/or fine up to Rs.10, 000. The second offence, if within two years, can lead to up to two years prison term and/or fine of Rs. 15,000.

After going easy on drunken driving during Covid pandemic time in view of the health hazards associated with breath analyser test, the enforcement squads have been asked to conduct such drives at regular intervals.