Hyderabad: ORR, PVNR Expressway closed on New Year’s Eve; cops issue guidelines for public, bars, pubs

Permitted to operate till 1 am, the police have also told bars, pub owners to arrange alternative travel options for inebriated drivers.

ByAjay Tomar

Published Dec 30, 2023 | 9:09 PMUpdatedDec 30, 2023 | 9:11 PM

Cyberabad police guidelines ahead of the New Year.

In preparation for the New Year and the celebrations that will ensue, the Cyberabad Traffic Police on Saturday, 30 December, issued a set of guidelines and restrictions aimed at ensuring public safety and smooth traffic flow.

The measures cover road closures, regulations for cab and auto-rickshaw operators, guidelines for establishments serving alcohol, and general instructions for the public.

Road closures

The police said the Nehru Outer Ring Road (ORR) and PV Narasimha Rao (PVNR) Expressway would be closed for light motor vehicles — except those bound for the airport — from 10 pm to 5 am.

Several key flyovers, including Shilpa Layout, Gachibowli, Cyber Tower, and Forum Mall-JNTU, would be closed for all vehicular and pedestrian movement from 11 pm to 5 am, the police said.

The cops urged travellers to plan their journey accordingly and cooperate with on-duty traffic police.

They also appealed to drivers of cabs and auto-rickshaws to be in proper uniform and carry all required documents. They added that the operators must not misbehave with the public or demand excess fares.

In case drivers refuse to provide a ride, it would result in a penalty of ₹500. Citizens can lodge complaints through WhatsApp — 9490617346.

Also read: Bengaluru Metro extends NYE timings on Purple, Green lines

Establishments serving alcohol

The police said that bars, pubs, and clubs allowing customers to drive under the influence would face legal action.

They added that such establishments should make people aware of the consequences of drunk driving and arrange alternative travel options.

Bars, pubs, and clubs have been permitted to operate till 1 am, and music should be played under the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines of 45 decibels.

DJs are not allowed in outdoor events, the police added.

They also asked the pub, club, and bar owners to ensure that CCTVs with recording facilities are installed at all entry and exit points of establishments, covering 50 yards of the streets in front of it.

CCTVs should also be installed with recording facilities at parking places, the police added.

Guidelines for public

The police said that special cameras are in place to detect violations, such as over-speeding, driving on the wrong side, signal jumping, and other offences.

The police will start checking for drunk driving from 8 pm onwards.

“Vehicles lacking proper documentation may be temporarily seized. Minor driving or driving without a valid license will lead to vehicle detention and legal action,” the police stated

They have also prohibited the usage of high-decibel sound systems and vehicles without number plates. It urged the citizens to exercise caution, act responsibly, and contribute to a safe and joyous New Year celebration.

Also Read: Bengaluru ushers in 2024: Here’s where to head to this New Year’s Eve

Consequences of drunk driving

As per the police, if a person is found driving in an inebriated condition, a fine of ₹10,000 will be levied. Imprisonment for up to six months, in case of the first offence, could also be imposed.

For subsequent offences, a penalty of ₹15,000 and/or imprisonment for up to two years will be imposed.

Driving licenses will be suspended for three months for the first offense and permanently revoked for subsequent offences.

In case the driver, in an intoxicated state, commits a road accident leading to death, a case under the IPC Section 304 Part-2 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) will be filed.