According to an Economic Times report, there are about 13.4 million vehicles on the roads of Delhi. This enormous number indicates the probability of accidents and unfortunate events.

Hence, the government has become pretty strict when it comes to traffic violations. Therefore, they’ve hiked the amount of penalties imposed and allowed the traffic policemen to efficaciously catch hold of those who break road regulations and rules. Not only this, the Delhi Traffic Police is also allowed to seize a driving license of those who drink and drive.

For the first offence, you will receive a challan from the court and will be bound to pay a fine of Rs.10,000.  Under the Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act, 2019 the court can also send you to prison for six months or charge you with both penalties. 

Before 1st September 2019, the punishment for drunk and driving under Section 185 of Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 was Rs. 2000/- and/or jail for 6 months.

The fines for violating the traffic rules are applicable on all kinds of four-wheelers, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles.

What Happens if You Violate the Rule a Second Time?

In case, you repeat your mistake and make an offence of drunk and driving for the second time then you could be held liable for 2 years in prison and/or a fine of Rs. 15,000/-.

Earlier, for the second offence, you had to pay Rs.3000/- and/or imprisonment of 2 years.

If the Traffic police doubts or catches you violating the traffic rule when intoxicated with drugs or alcohol, they immediately take a BAC test. They impound/detain the vehicle you are driving. If your Blood Alcohol Content exceeds 30 mg per 100 ml of blood detected by a breath-analyser, then you are accused of the offence of drunk driving.

Drinking and Driving is an offence which can cost both you and someone else’s life. To curb such ignorance while driving, and ensure a safe city, the government has imposed the above mentioned fines.