A recent incident at Amona has once again highlighted the grave dangers of drunken driving. A vehicle, allegedly driven by a person under the influence of alcohol reportedly came dangerously close to colliding with the convoy of Goa’s Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant. Thankfully, a potential disaster was averted, but the episode underscores a larger, persistent problem on Goa’s roads. While no collision occurred, the scare was enough to expose how reckless behavior can endanger lives even at the highest levels of public office. Drunken driving is alarmingly common in the state, especially during late-night hours. If even the Chief Minister’s convoy can be threatened by reckless drunken driving, it signals how pervasive and dangerous the issue has become. This incident should serve as a wake-up call for stricter enforcement and stronger deterrents. It is a stark reminder of the urgent need to tackle drunken driving in Goa. More checkpoints, breathalyzer tests, and night patrols are needed to curb offenders. Heavier fines, licence suspensions, and even custodial sentences are necessary for repeat offenders. Protecting lives on the road must become a top priority.
