Metro’s booze test could mean more driving drunk: police

The proposed alcohol tests to stop drunk commuters from boarding a Metro train may encourage people to drink and drive, feel senior Delhi Police officers. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which guards the Delhi Metro, recently placed demands for breathalysers for strict screening.

The proposed alcohol tests to stop drunk commuters from boarding a Metro train may encourage people to drink and drive, feel senior Delhi Police officers. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which guards the Delhi Metro, recently placed demands for breathalysers for strict screening.

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“The decision is unprecedented and unwarranted,” said Anil Shukla, additional commissioner of police (traffic). “Drunk driving is prohibited, so we can prosecute violators. But our excise policy doesn’t stop one from commuting after a few drinks. If anybody causes nuisance, the police can step in.”

No country seems to forbid the use of public transport after drinking. However, consuming alcohol on board and carrying an open container of alcohol on public transport are banned in the London Underground and metro systems worldwide.

“Causing nuisance is an offence, not drinking,” Shukla said. This may encourage other agencies such as DTC from adopting such a policy, which can be challenged under law, said another police officer requesting anonymity.

Deepak Mishra, special CP (law and order), said, “I only hope that this step does not encourage drunk driving.”

The CISF argues that drunk commuters are a nuisance and often trigger brawls.