ONE-in-17 drivers tested for drugs in the Orana Local Area Command (LAC) this year registered a positive result, according to new figures released by NSW Police.
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Motorists travelling on roads in the state's west were among more than 1100 detected under the influence of illicit drugs so far in 2014.
Since January 1, random drug-testing operations had seen 29,500 drivers tested and 1160 return positive results, compared with 729 drivers out of 34,280 tests carried out in 2013.
Drugs detected included cannabis, methylamphetamine (speed or ice) and ecstasy.
A police spokesperson said of 593 tests carried out in the Orana Local Area Command (LAC) there were 35 positive tests results.
In the neighbouring Darling River LAC, there were 45 tests, with one driver testing positive.
Meanwhile in the Walgett-based Castlereagh LAC, two of 46 drivers returned positive test results.
NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol Acting Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said the numbers were alarming and a sad reflection on the attitudes of some motorists.
"One in 25 drivers caught on drugs (statewide) is appalling and to have nearly 700 of these drivers test positive to having multiple drugs in their system should serve as a shock to the community," he said.
"Those that use drugs and then drive need to understand, we can be anywhere, anytime, right across NSW conducting random drug testing operations.
"As the year ends and with a busy holiday period ahead, we are urging drivers to not take unnecessary risks on the roads and remain safe, so they are able to enjoy this time with family and friends."
Police and Emergency Services minister Stuart Ayres said it was important to understand the effect of driving while under the influence of drugs.
"The message is clear - if you get behind the wheel after taking drugs, you will be caught," he said.
"Not only are you putting your own life at risk with such reckless behaviour, but also the lives of others."
Minister for Roads and Freight Duncan Gay said the NSW government was serious about reducing drug driving on the road, and he had asked the Centre for Road Safety to develop a package to target dangerous behaviour in order to make roads safer.
"We will be stepping up the fight to remove this behaviour from our roads and help save the lives of innocent motorists endangered by the idiotic actions of drug drivers," he said.
