Kathmandu traffic police launch strict crackdown on dunk & drugged driving

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Valley traffic police have launched a rigorous monitoring and enforcement campaign targeting drivers who violate traffic rules, aiming to reduce the risk of road accidents in the capital.

Recent investigations have identified alcohol consumption (DUI), drug use, and general traffic violations as major causes behind the rising number of accidents in the valley. In response, the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office has initiated a special operation.

Traffic police chief, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nawaraj Adhikari, along with his team, has been deployed directly on the roads. A control room team simultaneously tracks vehicles violating rules and provides real-time information for enforcement.

The operation involves early-morning checks targeting public transport drivers, and afternoon and evening checks focused on two-wheeler drivers. Police are stationed at major intersections, busy streets, and accident-prone areas to conduct on-the-spot tests for alcohol and drug use among drivers.

SSP Navaraj Adhikari emphasized that the primary goal of the campaign is accident reduction and passenger safety. “A single driver carries the responsibility of dozens of passengers. Even a small mistake, especially under the influence of alcohol or drugs, can cause major accidents. Our priority is to prevent such incidents,” he stated.

The operation has already resulted in the detection and punishment of dozens of drivers operating public transport vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Offenders have been fined according to traffic laws, and legal proceedings are underway.

In addition to fines, traffic authorities have announced plans to recommend the revocation of licenses for drivers who endanger passengers by driving under the influence or recklessly colliding with road dividers. SSP Navaraj Adhikari stressed that mere fines are insufficient to curb negligent driving and stronger measures, including license suspension, are necessary.

Traffic police spokesperson, Superintendent of Police (SP) Nareshraj Subedi, added that drivers violating traffic lights or driving recklessly during the day or at night are under strict surveillance, and enforcement actions are being taken against violators. “Drivers who ignore red lights or operate vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs are being controlled and penalized. Dozens of both four-wheeler and two-wheeler drivers have already been sanctioned,” he said.

The Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office plans to continue surprise checks across the valley while raising awareness among drivers about traffic rules, safe driving practices, and avoiding alcohol or drug consumption while driving.

12 Drivers Caught Driving Under Influence

During a surprise check this morning under the special campaign, 12 drivers were caught operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. Offenders included:

• 2 public buses
• 1 school bus
• 2 mini trucks
• 1 sumo vehicle
• 1 microbus
• 1 tempo
• 1 tourist van
• 3 private cars

SP Nareshraj Subedi confirmed that the campaign is ongoing and urged passengers to report any suspicion of drug or alcohol use by drivers immediately to the nearest police station or the traffic control room hotline.