Archive · 6 Oct 2026
Maharashtra Proposes Roadside Drug Tests for Drivers, With ₹25.81-Crore System
Maharashtra may introduce quick roadside tests for drivers suspected of using drugs.
The test would use a swab to collect saliva.
It could give an early indication within a few minutes.
It would be a first check, not the final proof of drug use.
Drivers who test positive would still need medical examinations and follow-up legal procedures.
Officials say this could help them act more quickly and improve road safety.
The state currently lacks a separate, comprehensive database of drug-driving cases.
An earlier plan estimated the system would cost about ₹25.81 crore, including GST.
Maharashtra’s Transport Department is preparing a roadside drug-testing proposal for review by a high-powered committee.
The proposed saliva swab kits would provide a preliminary screening result within minutes.
A positive roadside screen would be followed by prescribed medical examinations and other legal procedures.
The system is intended to address the current lack of quick roadside drug screening and improve road safety.
An earlier proposal estimated the system would cost about ₹25.81 crore including GST; the revised cost may be higher.
- Who
- Maharashtra’s Transport Department is preparing the proposal, which could involve department and traffic police teams.
- What
- A proposed roadside system would use saliva swab kits to screen drivers suspected of drug use.
- When
- The report is dated October 5, 2026; no implementation date is specified.
- Where
- Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- Officials say the system could fill a gap in quick drug-driving enforcement and improve road safety.
- Proposed test
- Saliva-based roadside swab screening
- Screening time
- A preliminary indication within a few minutes
- Earlier estimated cost
- About ₹25.81 crore, including GST
- Possible revised cost
- May be slightly higher due to changes in equipment, technology and other requirements
- Next step
- The Transport Department is preparing to place the proposal before the high-powered committee
- Follow-up after a positive screen
- Medical examination and other prescribed legal procedures
- Data gap
- Maharashtra has no separate, comprehensive state-level database of drug-driving cases