Guwahati : Traffic rule violations in Guwahati registered a sharp increase in May, prompting intensified enforcement by the city traffic police and resulting in a substantial rise in e-challan collections, which crossed Rs 3 crore during the month.

According to official data released by the Guwahati Traffic Police, cases of drunken driving, helmetless riding, wrong-side driving and other traffic offences surged significantly compared to April, reflecting both increased violations and stricter enforcement measures across the city.

One of the most striking increases was recorded in cases of drunken driving. Traffic authorities detected 396 cases in May, compared to just 41 cases in April, representing an almost tenfold rise. Officials described the trend as a matter of serious concern, noting that driving under the influence of alcohol remains one of the leading causes of fatal road accidents and serious injuries.

The number of two-wheeler riders caught without helmets also rose sharply during the period. While 7,309 violations were recorded in April, the figure climbed to 11,859 in May. Traffic officials said the increase highlights continuing non-compliance with basic road safety regulations despite repeated awareness campaigns.

A significant portion of these violations-8,230 cases-was detected through the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), underscoring the growing role of technology-based surveillance in monitoring road users and enforcing traffic laws.

Wrong-side driving, another major contributor to road accidents, also witnessed a notable rise. Cases increased from 526 in April to 963 in May. Authorities have repeatedly warned that driving against the designated traffic flow endangers not only the violators but also other motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

Violations related to seat belt usage recorded a moderate increase, rising from 52 cases in April to 90 in May. Traffic police continue to emphasise that seat belts significantly reduce the risk of fatal injuries during accidents and remain mandatory for vehicle occupants.

Similarly, incidents of triple riding on motorcycles increased from 113 cases to 130 during the same period, despite repeated warnings about the dangers associated with carrying more passengers than permitted.

The use of mobile phones while driving also remained a concern for authorities. Cases rose from 22 in April to 31 in May, indicating continued disregard for road safety norms among some motorists. Experts have consistently identified distracted driving as a major risk factor contributing to traffic accidents.