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New Delhi: As the
police get stricter about drunken driving, partygoers in New Delhi are taking no
chances and hired drivers are in high demand.
The demand for drivers and cars means
car rental
companies, too, are not complaining.
Anjali, a 25-year-old, and her friends enjoy their
Saturday nights at a pub. But with the Delhi Police getting tougher on drunken
driving this year, they are being extra cautious on New Years Eve.
"We have heard magistrates and policemen are
checking for drunken driving. Since all of us drink, we couldn't have a
designated driver. Instead we plan to rent a cab," says Anjali.
And so with police personnel present at all major
intersections and penalties ranging from a steep fine to a jail sentence, many
partygoers in the city are opting for a safer route
So the New Year eve revellers plan to book a car
or hire a driver and the decision to drink and not drive is a bonus for car
rental agencies.
"There is an increase especially for cabs for late
night use after parties etc. There was more demand during Xmas eve and we expect
more during New Years Eve," says J Mareila, Marketing Manager, Dial A Cab.
The car rental business has reported a nearly 25
per cent increase in demand for their services.
This December, companies like Dial a Cab have
added up to 20 cars to their night fleet to keep up with the demand. The lack of
reliable and safe public transport is another point in their favour.
"It's a question of safety. I don't mind shelling
out if that's what it takes to ensure we get home without an accident," a
partygoer says.
If one thought that calling a cab after drinking
binge will be an added expense then think again. It's cheaper than a challan,
spending a night in jail or paying with one's life.
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