KATHMANDU, April 6:
Drivers, beware!
Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office (KVTPO) has intensified the checks across Kathmandu Valley from early morning until late at night. The move aims to enforce discipline on the roads and reduce the rising number of traffic accidents.
The KVTPO Chief and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nawaraj Adhikari has personally deployed teams on the streets to monitor compliance with traffic laws and ensure safer roads. The teams are conducting strict surveillance and action against drivers violating traffic rules, particularly those under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Over 1.58 million punished for drunk driving in five years
Recent investigations identified alcohol (drunk driving) and drug use among drivers, along with general traffic violations, as major contributors to accidents. In response, the KVTPO has launched a special operation to curb these risky behaviors. The operation includes field teams and a control unit that tracks and reports violations in real time.
Targeted checks are being conducted on public transport vehicles in the morning, and two-wheeler drivers in the afternoon and evening. Major intersections, busy roads, and accident-prone areas of the valley are under active monitoring. SSP Adhikari said the operation prioritizes accident prevention and passenger safety, noting that a single careless driver can endanger dozens of passengers.
“One driver carrying dozens of passengers can cause a major accident if driving under the influence. Our primary goal is to reduce traffic accidents, and we will take strict action against drunk or drugged drivers,” Adhikari said.
As part of the campaign, dozens of public transport drivers have already been penalized for alcohol or drug use, with fines and legal procedures underway. The KVTPO have also warned that repeat offenders may face license cancellation recommendations to the concerned authorities.
Traffic rules violations, such as running red lights or reckless driving that endangers passengers, are also being strictly enforced. Information Officer at the KVTPO SSP Naresh Raj Subedi said officers are closely monitoring drivers who ignore traffic lights or operate vehicles under the influence, and immediate action is being taken.
“Drivers who run red lights or operate vehicles after drinking are being apprehended and penalized. Dozens of four-wheeler and two-wheeler drivers have already faced action under this campaign,” Subedi said.
The KVTPO has urged passengers to report any suspected drunk or drugged driver immediately to the nearest police station or via the Traffic Control Room hotline.
Early morning surprise checks: 12 drivers penalized
During surprise checks this morning, 12 drivers were penalized for driving under the influence. The offenders included drivers of two passenger buses, one school bus, two mini trucks, one Sumo, one microbus, one tempo, one tourist van, and three private cars.
The SSP emphasized that the operation will continue across various locations in the valley, alongside awareness programs encouraging drivers to follow traffic rules, avoid alcohol and drugs while driving, and ensure safe travel for all passengers.
