Straight answers

Drinking and driving is a majorproblem in all metros and is fast catching up in districts and taluks also. Thepresent programmes have not been successful as seen by an increase in deaths andhospitalisation from year to year. The programmes need to be stronger and morevisible with broader coverage.Of the nearly 30-40 per cent of road crashes occurringat night, 25-30 per cent are related to alcoholinfluence.Firstly, strict enforcement oflaws against drunk driving with high penalties (including cancellation oflicences) in a visible and random manner with awareness-building at all levels.Compulsory checks should be conducted among two-wheeler riders, car drivers andbus and lorry/truck drivers. There should be dedicated trained enforcement teamswith adequate supply of breathalysers and transport.Secondly, thereis need for serious consensus on a policy dictating timing of bars and pubs,legal age limit for sale of alcohol and location of alcohol sellingoutlets.Men between 15-44 years, two-wheelerriders and car drivers, irrespective of education and social class are thehighest risk groups as drinking is becoming a common phenomenon.