New Delhi: In a unique move to curb drunk driving in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, the local police have started using a chalk line test to check the fitness of drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. People might confuse it with with a fashion show or a runway walk, but it is a physical test designed to detect impaired coordination and motor skills in suspected drunk drivers.
Under the direction of Ratlam’s Superintendent of Police (SP) Amit Kumar, the police have initiated this unique method of testing suspected drunk drivers, particularly in rural and remote areas where traditional breath analyzers are not available. The police ask drivers to walk along a chalk line on the road, and if they stagger or lose balance while walking, it is an indication that they may be intoxicated.
Initiative aims to curb the increasing incidents of drink-driving
“If a driver stumbles while walking on the chalk line, it indicates they are under the influence,” said SP Amit Kumar. “In such cases, we conduct a medical test and take appropriate legal action.” The initiative aims to curb the increasing incidents of drink-driving, especially in rural areas where alcohol is easily accessible, and accidents due to drunk driving have been on the rise.
In rural areas, where breath analyzers are often unavailable, the chalk line test is proving to be an effective alternative. Police stop vehicles, ask drivers to walk the line, and assess their physical stability. Those who fail the test are subjected to a medical check-up and legal proceedings. This initiative has caused a stir among local alcohol consumers, as many have been found driving under the influence without consequences. Police have been using this method in areas where drink-driving accidents are frequent, hoping to reduce the number of road fatalities and injuries caused by drunk drivers.
Video of the police conducting this test has gone viral
A video of the police conducting this test has gone viral on social media, drawing attention to the creative approach being used. SP Amit Kumar clarified that the purpose of this initiative is not to harass drivers, but to take action against those driving under the influence of alcohol and to prevent road accidents.
The new measure was launched in the Javra sub-division, under the supervision of officer Durgesh Armo and Mawta Chowki in-charge Sharif Khan. The chalk line method has successfully raised awareness about the dangers of drink-driving and provided a solution where traditional testing equipment is unavailable.
