Drunkards Make People Feel Unsafe in Hyderabad City

Hyderabad: The sight of several persons teetering or collapsing on the city roads, either from excess drinking or drug consumption has become common. When they lie down on the road edge, or on the road itself, it becomes a danger for themselves as well as a safety hazard for motorists.

“This happens every now and then, especially on weekends. When the weekly market is on, it turns into a free-for-all — alcoholics are everywhere,” a shopkeeper in Lalapet.

Recalling an incident at Gachibowli, a private employee, said, “The turn after the underpass is poorly marked, and crowds from the wine shop spill onto the road. It feels like half of Kothaguda is gathered there. People who should be drinking in the permit room are outside on the road, already drunk and causing a scene.”

Similar concerns were voiced at the Mettuguda bus stop, where a woman described a frightening encounter. “A man who had consumed alcohol across the street came to the bus stop and was standing amidst the public. It was clearly disturbing all of us. After some time, he simply dozed off in the waiting area. I remember his red eyes!” she said.

This has triggered blame-game among enforcement departments. A law and order police inspector said, “These scenes often cause chaos and traffic disruptions. However, the excise department has the authority to cancel licenses for such violations.”

A traffic police officer said action can be taken under the City Police Act by either the excise department or the law and order department. “Traffic police have no role in filing cases against shops or individuals. The shops are expected to hire private security to manage traffic and parking,” the officer clarified.

While acknowledging the violations, an official from the excise department said, “If any law and order police reports are filed regarding such violations, we will take action and register cases under relevant provisions.”