Keralam considers cancelling licences for drunk driving to improve road safety
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala and Transport Minister C P John are discussing stricter penalties for motorists driving under the influence.
The Keralam government is considering the cancellation or permanent revocation of driving licences for individuals who cause accidents while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to Onmanorama.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala and Transport Minister C P John have reached an in-principle agreement on these measures. The government may introduce legal amendments to ensure offenders face more serious consequences than the current fines of up to Rs 10,000 or six months of imprisonment.
Chennithala stated that there will be no leniency for those risking the lives of others. He noted that approximately 17,000 people have been apprehended for drunken driving so far, while inspections over four days identified more than 15,000 suspected offenders, including school bus drivers.
Transport Minister C P John said nearly 3,500 people die in road accidents in Keralam every year. He added that accidents could be reduced by half with public support.
The Kerala Road Safety Mission, headed by the Chief Minister, will begin operations on November 15 to tackle reckless driving. This mission will establish 'Safe Driving Clubs' starting at the district level.
Additionally, the second phase of #OperationToofan, called 'Toofan Care', will launch on November 16. This initiative will focus on rehabilitating people struggling with substance abuse with the help of 35 hospitals.