Guwahati started the New Year with a strong message on road safety as the Assam Police and the Transport Department carried out a large-scale enforcement drive against drunk driving across the city on New Year’s Eve. The checking was done at several points in Guwahati, where vehicles were stopped and drivers were tested with breath analysers to detect alcohol consumption.
During the late-night operation, a number of motorists were found driving under the influence of alcohol. Officials issued fines and seized the driving licences of the offenders. Senior police and transport officials closely monitored the drive and made it clear that there would be zero tolerance toward drunk driving in the city.
However, the operation was not only about punishment. In a friendly gesture, drivers who were found completely sober were greeted with red roses and chocolates. Police officers also wished them a Happy New Year and thanked them for being responsible on the road. At ABC Point, traffic police personnel marked the arrival of the New Year while on duty by cutting a cake at midnight, symbolising service and celebration together. 
Earlier, the city police had already announced that this special checking drive would continue for one month starting January 1. Round-the-clock checking will be carried out on busy city roads and accident-prone stretches to discourage drunk driving and ensure safer roads.
Even as the drive continued, a major road accident took place in Guwahati on New Year’s Day. The incident happened near Dispur Last Gate when a vehicle bearing registration number AS-06-W-3614 allegedly came from the wrong direction and collided with another vehicle. Both vehicles were badly damaged in the crash. Traffic police from Dispur Police Station reached the spot immediately and detained both drivers for investigation.
Meanwhile, joint breathalyser checking was also carried out by the Transport Department and Assam Police in front of Janata Bhawan as part of the ongoing crackdown.
