Hyderabad’s New Year Traffic: Road Closures for December 31

The Rachakonda Traffic Police has announced traffic restrictions and guidelines for New Year’s Eve celebrations on Tuesday to ensure public safety and smooth traffic management. These measures include road closures, vehicle checks, and strict enforcement of traffic rules.

The Outer Ring Road will be closed to light motor vehicles and passenger vehicles from 11 p.m. on Tuesday to 5 a.m. on Wednesday. Medium and heavy goods vehicles are exempt from this restriction. Passengers traveling to the airport in light motor vehicles will be permitted on the ORR upon showing valid travel tickets. Several flyovers and underpasses in the city will also remain inaccessible to light motor vehicles, two-wheelers, and passenger vehicles from 10 p.m. on Tuesday to 5 a.m. on Wednesday. These include the Nagole Flyover, Kamineni Flyover, multi-level flyovers at LB Nagar, and the underpasses at LB Nagar and Chinthalkunta. Medium and heavy goods vehicles will be allowed on these routes.

Cab and auto-rickshaw operators have been directed to comply with uniform requirements and carry all necessary documents. Refusing rides to passengers will result in a fine of Rs 500 under Section 178 of the Motor Vehicles Act. Complaints can be reported through WhatsApp at 8712662111 by providing vehicle details, time, and location.

Establishments serving alcohol, including bars and pubs, have been instructed to ensure that customers do not drive under the influence. Any establishment found allowing patrons to drive after consuming alcohol will face legal consequences. Managements are advised to educate customers about the risks and arrange alternative transportation. Traffic police will conduct checks across the Rachakonda Commissionerate for violations, including drunk driving, overspeeding, and dangerous driving. Vehicles will be detained if drivers fail to produce valid licenses or necessary documents. Modified silencers, high-decibel horns, and music systems are banned, with violators facing action.

Penalties for drunk driving include fines of up to Rs 10,000 and imprisonment of up to six months for a first offense. Repeat offenders may face higher fines, longer imprisonment, and permanent revocation of their driving licenses. The police have warned that any fatal accidents caused by drunk or reckless driving will lead to criminal charges under applicable laws.