Drunk to the gills? Soon,you can't ride on Namma Metro trains

Bengaluru: With increasing complaints of inebriated commuters getting into Namma Metro trains and causing nuisance, Metro officials are now thinking of preventing people who are under the influence of excessive alcohol from getting into the train. 

Metro authorities are empowered to prevent drunk people from entering the train as per Section 59 of The Metro Railway (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002, formerly the Delhi Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002. 

The authorities can act against people accused of drunk behaviour, nuisance, vandalism or using abusive language. The section provides for a fine of Rs 500 and expulsion of the offender.

The complaints have gone up since Namma Metro extended the services till 11.30 pm from the Majestic station to other destinations. "Unfortunately, there have been complaints of drunk people entering the train and dirtying it by vomiting and creating nuisance by fighting with the staff and co-passengers," said Mr U.A. Vasanth Rao, General Manager (Finance and Chief Public Relation Officer)

"This is a recent trend and should be tackled carefully to avoid misuse of public services. The commuters can drink and come, but not totally drunk and creating nuisance. Shortly, we will take action to curb such nuisance," Mr Rao said.

Checking the alcohol levels with breathalysers while frisking or during the security check can be one of the options that can be explored, he said.