Manaus, Brazil, saw significant enforcement efforts during the New Year's Eve celebrations as the Department of Traffic of Amazonas (Detran-AM) launched its Operation Réveillon Seguro. This initiative aimed to combat drunk driving and promote road safety, as evidenced by the staggering 94 cases of impaired driving reported over the festive period.
Conducted overnight from December 31 to January 1, the operation involved over 100 professionals across the city, focusing on key areas known for heavy traffic during celebrations. According to Wendell Waughan, the Detran-AM president, the positioning of seven fixed checkpoints and the deployment of two mobile units were central to the effort. He stated, "O Detran Amazonas esteve nas ruas de Manaus para que fosse feita a segurança viária em todas as zonas da cidade," highlighting the comprehensive coverage aimed at ensuring safety for all road users.
During the operation, which saw 1,457 total inspections, authorities issued 807 citations for various traffic violations, underscoring the seriousness of the initiative. Among these infringements were 99 instances of motorcyclists riding without helmets, and 68 cases of passengers being transported without proper safety equipment. Other common violations included the operation of vehicles without necessary licensing and refusals to submit to breathalyzer tests.
Despite the widespread enforcement, the operation managed to report only one traffic accident, occurring at approximately 4:40 AM on January 1. This incident involved a passenger vehicle colliding with a bus on Avenida do Turismo, located in the western part of Manaus. Emergency responders were quick to assist, transporting injured individuals to the 28 de Agosto Hospital. Fortunately, the number of victims remained undisclosed yet reflects the effective measures taken to mitigate potential hazards on the road during the festivities.
Arthur Cruz, the general coordinator of traffic enforcement at Detran-AM, emphasized the operation's aim to deter dangerous behaviors such as alcohol consumption before driving. He remarked, "Principalmente aquelas infrações que comprometem diretamente a segurança viária, como o uso do álcool e direção," stressing the importance of protecting lives through preemptive enforcement. This philosophy guided the operation’s methods and underlined the determination to minimize risks associated with New Year celebrations.
Alongside Detran-AM's initiatives, various other security bodies participated, including the Civil and Military Police of Amazonas and the Fire Corps. Their collective mission not only sought to clamp down on drunk driving but also aimed to raise general awareness about road safety during one of the year’s most celebratory yet dangerous times.
One noticeable aspect of the operation was its early and thorough preparations, reminiscent of measures taken during the Christmas period. These efforts have laid the groundwork for sustained awareness and preventive strategies moving forward, aligning with Detran-AM’s overall mission of promoting safer road behavior year-round.
The visible presence of law enforcement during the festivities served as both protection for celebrants and as a stern reminder of the repercussions of dangerous driving behaviors. Safety campaigns, like the one entitled "Trânsito Seguro, Sem Chance Para Morte" (Safe Traffic, No Chance for Death) conducted during December, have also played significant roles, encouraging partygoers to make safer travel decisions.
Community feedback has been largely positive. Some attendees, such as 71-year-old João Aparecido Rodrigues, acknowledged the importance of using app-based transportation to avoid potential pitfalls related to driving under the influence. Speaking on his decision, Rodrigues remarked, "É muito mais cômodo. Não preciso me preocupar com estacionamento, e o mais importante é ir e voltar com segurança,“ illustrating the increasing preference for alternative transportation as safety awareness rises.
Operation Réveillon Seguro not only reaffirms Detran’s commitment to managing traffic safety but also sets the stage for future initiatives as the department strives to maintain and evolve its response strategies amid changing societal behaviors. With community efforts continuing to reinforce responsible road use, Manaus stands as a beacon of proactive measures aiming to safeguard lives.
Looking back, this operation served as a pivotal moment emphasizing the necessity of vigilance and responsibility during celebrations. With the statistics and testimonials reflecting the operation’s efforts, it becomes clear: safety on the roads must be everyone's priority, especially during festive gatherings where the stakes can be tragically high.