The number of people caught driving under the influence of alcohol in the country witnessed a significant decrease last year compared to 2023. The latest statistics show that the number of cases has fallen by almost 30 per cent during the period. Authorities say this can be attributed to a combination of heightened public awareness and inspections. The introduction of the Auto Demerit Point System for major traffic offences is expected to further drive the numbers down.
According to official records maintained with the Bhutan Construction and Transport Authority (BCTA), 2,949 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol were recorded last year. The figure dropped by over 1200 cases from 4,194 in 2023.
Thimphu region dominated the statistics with 1,123 cases registered last year. This represents a sharp decline from 2023 when the region recorded 3,294 cases.
Sangay, a taxi driver said “When people drive under the influence of alcohol, especially taxi drivers like us, we not only put our own lives at risk but also endanger innocent passengers. Additionally, we may also damage our vehicles and public infrastructure.”
According to the BCTA, to curb the growing concern of such cases, the authority, in collaboration with the police conducted various road safety awareness and sensitisation campaigns last year. The areas covered include Thimphu, Punakha, Gelephu, Wangdue Phodrang, Panbang, and Pema Gatshel, targeting both ordinary and professional drivers. The authority aims to conduct campaigns in Paro in the coming months.
Additionally, the authority said it conducts random inspections, where penalties are imposed on people found guilty of drink driving.
Tandin Namgay, a taxi driver said “I believe the decrease in cases of drink driving is a positive sign. This may be due to the strict rules and penalties imposed by the authority. I hope that such cases will continue to decline in the future.”
Sonam Dorji, a resident said “It is very risky for everyone when people drink and drive. I request everyone to be responsible and mindful when driving.”
BCTA officials said that with the start of the Auto Demerit Point System since last month, they hope that it would further reduce the number of drink driving cases in the country.
This system aims to ensure fairness and consistency in the application of penalties by eliminating human bias. It is designed to enhance road safety and promote accountability among drivers.
Under this system, first-time offenders receive a monetary fine of Nu 1,750 and one demerit point on their driving licence. A second offence results in penalties and an additional demerit point. For a third violation, offenders face a monetary penalty, and their driving licences will be suspended for six months. If caught for the fourth time, in addition to the penalties, the driving licences of offenders will be cancelled.
Once cancelled, affected individuals have to apply for a reinstatement process to have any chance of obtaining a driving licence again.
Kinley Bidha
Edited by Kipchu
