Udupi: The increasing number of cases involving youth driving under the influence of alcohol and overspeeding in Udupi district has become a matter of serious concern.

Compared to 2024 and 2025, the year 2026 has already recorded a higher number of such incidents. As a result, while some young individuals have lost their lives, many innocent people have suffered serious injuries or even death.

Students from various parts of the country are studying in educational institutions in Udupi and Manipal. In this environment, some students are allegedly violating traffic rules by overspeeding on bikes and cars and driving under the influence of alcohol during weekend parties.

On April 20, late at night, a group of students drove a car at high speed and in a reckless manner from Eshwar Nagar, Manipal, towards Syndicate Circle and crashed into a bus stop near Tiger Circle. The driver, Kartikeya Sharma (21) from Uttarakhand, died on the spot, while Harsh Harding (24) from North Goa, who was also in the vehicle, suffered severe head, arm, and leg injuries.

Earlier, another incident was reported where a young man and woman driving at high speed from near the Deputy Commissioner's office hit an elderly man, leaving him critically injured with head injuries.

Such incidents are being reported not only in Udupi and Manipal but also in Kapu, Padubidri, Brahmavar, Amashebylu, Shankaranarayana, Gangolli, and Byndoor. Police have already registered several cases and suspended many driving licenses.

Penalty system

For overspeeding and drunk driving, the police impose fines ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 for light motor vehicles and Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 for commercial or heavy vehicles. In drunk driving cases, the punishment includes up to 6 months imprisonment or Rs 10,000 fine, or both. Repeat offenders may face up to 2 years imprisonment or Rs 15,000 fine, or both. Vehicles may also be seized and driving licenses cancelled.