Police officers conduct breathalyser test in Cuttack (file pictures)

Cuttack, Sept. 21: Police in the Millennium City have intensified their drive against drunk driving keeping in mind the upcoming festive season, beginning with Dussehra.

In the last four days, about 500 people have been fined Rs 500 each for driving under the influence of alcohol.

A sum of Rs 2.5 lakh has been collected as fine from the violators during the special drive. Sources in the police said the drive was likely to continue at least till the end of the festive season.

“We have intensified the drive against drunk drivers as they pose a threat to the society,” said deputy commissioner of police Praveen Kumar.

Police commissioner B.K. Sharma is directing the intensification of the drive.

Kumar further said the drive was part of regular enforcement of traffic law and order. Efforts are also being made to keep a tab on rash driving and triple riding.

Sources in the police said they were using breath analysers to make every possible effort to put a check on drunk driving.

“As many roads wear a deserted look after 11pm, it gives an opportunity to the youths who are frequently seen riding their racing bikes at full throttle. Racing on city streets is not only dangerous for the bikers, but also for other commuters,” said Manoranjan Nayak, a businessman in the city.

Nayak said regular drives on national highways and roads within city limits could put a check on rash and drunk driving.