SMS challans for Traffic Violators in Mumbai

The Mumbai Traffic Police and RTO have started sending challans to traffic violators on their cell phones via SMS. A team of 25 constables has been assigned the role of closely monitoring footage from around 4,717 CCTV cameras installed in the city. This footage is sent to the Traffic Control Room, where the said team scans it thoroughly to nab traffic offenders.

Challans generated due to these violations are then sent to the registered mobile number of the offending vehicle. Interestingly, photographic evidence of the offence is also being attached with the challan.

The offenders are being provided an option to pay the fine through Maharashtra Police's official website. Various E-Seva Kendra kiosks across the city have also been given the authority to collect traffic violation fines. Vodafone's cash payment points are another medium through which the fines can be paid.

In order to be harsh on repeat offenders, the team will notify the RTO to suspend licence of a driver who has been booked for more than five offences. This new system has been put in place in order to avoid the scope for corruption, and provide ample time to on-field traffic police so that they can concentrate on regulating traffic.

Source: Times of India