Celebratory crowds in Connaught Place, Khan Market and several south Delhi localities brought heavy traffic and congestion to the capital on New Year’s Eve, prompting a major enforcement operation by Delhi Traffic Police. Authorities said the intensified campaign, carried out to protect road users and curb dangerous behaviour, resulted in a marked increase in penalties for driving under the influence.
On the night of 31 December 2025, traffic teams issued 868 challans for driving while intoxicated, compared with 272 on the same night in 2024. Officers said the rise reflected a deliberate, targeted enforcement drive rather than a simple increase in offences.
Delhi traffic enforcement
The Traffic Management Division deployed special arrangements across the city, with extra resources concentrated around late-night party hubs where footfall and vehicle movement are highest. Local police stations, PCR vans and traffic units worked together to maintain order and prevent accidents.
Approximately 100 special teams, each equipped with alcometers, conducted sustained checks into the night. Senior traffic officers were present on the roads, monitoring operations and ensuring a prompt response to violations. Checkpoints were established at major junctions, sensitive areas, markets and stretches prone to accidents.
Authorities said enforcement focused on the most hazardous offences: drunk driving, three-up riding on two-wheelers, riding without helmets, driving the wrong way and indiscriminate parking. The campaign followed a zero-tolerance policy for behaviour that directly endangers lives.
Despite the heightened checks, the overall pattern of recorded traffic rule breaches reported for the night presented mixed figures. The published report noted differences in totals compared with previous years, while underlining that the central aim was to deter dangerous driving through visible and consistent policing.
Environmental enforcement also formed a significant part of the operation. With the capital’s pollution remaining in a very poor category, traffic officers issued 2,763 challans to drivers found operating vehicles without a Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). The police warned that action against non-compliant vehicles will continue in the weeks ahead.
Officials described the operation as a preventive measure to keep roads safer during celebrations when risk typically rises. They encouraged motorists to plan journeys, avoid driving under the influence and observe traffic laws. Motorists were reminded that wearing helmets, respecting one-way signs and parking responsibly are simple steps that reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Traffic authorities said the campaign combined visibility with enforcement to send a clear message that road safety would not be compromised for the sake of celebration. They pledged to maintain similar vigilance during other major events and festivals to protect residents and visitors alike.
Key Takeaways:
- Delhi traffic enforcement deployed 100 alcometer-equipped teams and intensified checks across Connaught Place, Khan Market and south Delhi.
- DUI fines rose from 272 on 31 December 2024 to 868 on 31 December 2025, reflecting stricter enforcement.
- Police issued 2,763 fines for missing pollution control certificates amid continuing poor air quality.
- Zero-tolerance action targeted drunk driving, triple-riding, no-helmet offences and illegal parking.
