The fatal crash on May 19, 2024, in Pune, where two young techies were killed by a 17-year-old driving a Porsche Taycan at 200 km/h while intoxicated, should have served as a powerful deterrent against drunken driving. Despite the public outcry and legal action following this tragedy, incidents of inebriated driving remain frequent in Pune. Several factors contribute to this ongoing issue, particularly in areas surrounding IT parks and corporate hubs.
The Root Causes:
- Wealth and Entitlement: Pune’s rapid urbanization and economic boom, especially around its IT parks, have led to the rise of affluent families and a culture of entitlement. Many youths, like the minor involved in the Porsche crash, have access to high-performance cars and alcohol. This often leads to reckless behavior, compounded by the perception that wealth and connections can cushion legal repercussions.
- Lack of Strong Punitive Measures: The penalties for drunken driving, especially for minors, remain surprisingly lenient. For example, the 17-year-old involved in the Porsche crash was initially released on bail after being asked to write a 300-word essay and assist traffic police. Only after public outrage did the police invoke more severe charges like culpable homicide, which comes with the potential for a 10-year prison sentence. However, for many, the initial lack of seriousness in addressing the crime signals that even fatal accidents can be met with minimal consequences.
- Inadequate Policing Around IT Hubs: Pune’s tech zones, like Hinjewadi, are hotspots for late-night drinking and socializing among young professionals. Despite this, enforcement in these areas remains inconsistent. Drunken driving checks are not frequent enough, and the police are often stretched too thin to maintain a constant presence. The lack of comprehensive breathalyzer tests, especially in high-traffic areas, enables offenders to slip through unnoticed.
- Normalization of Alcohol Consumption: The incident exposed the increasing normalization of alcohol consumption among teenagers and young professionals, especially in upscale neighborhoods and around IT hubs. This problem is exacerbated by bars and restaurants in the area, which sometimes flout regulations by serving alcohol to minors. Despite arrests of pub owners following the crash, such illegal practices continue, further fueling the problem.
The Need for Stronger Enforcement:
- Targeted Policing in IT Zones: With many IT professionals working late hours and engaging in social activities near tech parks, authorities need to intensify patrols in these areas. Implementing regular drunken driving checks on roads connecting IT hubs with residential neighborhoods can help curb the problem. The use of modern technology, such as portable breathalyzers and screening devices for drugs, would also enhance the effectiveness of these efforts.
- Harsher Punishments: The current legal framework under the Motor Vehicles Act needs a significant overhaul. While the fines and jail time for repeat offenders have been increased, they are not strict enough to deter first-time offenders. More stringent penalties, such as longer prison terms, substantial fines, and permanent license cancellations for serious offenses, could significantly reduce the number of incidents.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Continuous awareness drives, particularly aimed at younger drivers, are crucial. Schools, colleges, and corporate offices must collaborate with law enforcement to educate young people about the dangers of drunken driving. Campaigns during road safety weeks, like those previously conducted in other states, can help change the mindset of entitled youth who see driving under the influence as a harmless activity.
Conclusion:
Despite the tragic Porsche crash that claimed the lives of two young IT engineers, drunken driving continues unabated in Pune, particularly in affluent areas near IT hubs. Addressing this issue requires stronger law enforcement, especially in these zones, coupled with harsher legal penalties. Without these changes, Pune’s roads will remain perilous, particularly for those who, like the victims of the May 19 accident, find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.
