Traffic violators can track nearest cop to pay fines

PANAJI: Violators caught flouting traffic norms will now be able to track and pay their fines to the nearest traffic police on duty, thus eliminating the need to visit the regional transport office (RTO) of one’s jurisdiction.
To automate traffic enforcement, police will integrate the traffic sentinel scheme with e-challan devices to implement this system.


“We want to integrate the traffic sentinel scheme with the e-challan system so that anyone can pay the fine to any police officer who is carrying the device,” said director general of police, Muktesh Chander.

He also said the traffic sentinel app will have a built-in geo-tracker for users to check the location of the nearest traffic police and pay the fine, provided the official has the e-challan device.

Goa Police is currently testing out the devices that have been offered by two different banks.

Depending on which bank can provide the devices faster, the police will go ahead with its implementation, Chander said. “The software is ready with us. But it depends on how fast the bank can get the devices,” he added.

The e-challan or electronic challan system will be a spot traffic ticket issued by the traffic police for a violation. This hand-held machine will be used for spot-fining and spot fine collection for immediate traffic regulation and enforcement.

“If we acquire 400 e-challan devices, anyone can pay the fine at 400 places other than their respective RTO. They won’t have to travel long distances and stand in a queue,” Chander said.

Besides being able to generate challans electronically and permit offenders to make e-payments of the penalty, the device will also serve as an electronic database of violations.

“This will be a game-changer in traffic enforcement and disciplining the public in road safety. Through the device, we will also be able to see the violator’s prosecution history at the click of a button. We can seek enhanced punishment in case of repeat offenders,” he further said.