In a major move to strengthen road safety and enforce traffic rules, Himachal Pradesh is preparing to implement an online challan system starting with Shimla. The new system will allow regional transport offices (RTOs) to issue digital fines for traffic violations with the help of CCTV cameras installed in urban areas. These cameras, which are currently monitored by the police, will soon be connected to the RTO, allowing them to directly issue fines for driving without a seat belt, overloading and other violations.
The initiative is part of a comprehensive plan to improve road safety across the state. The transport department, in collaboration with the police, has installed CCTV cameras at key locations, especially bus stops and high-traffic areas. In Shimla, almost all locations now have these cameras, and preparations are underway to integrate them with the RTO’s control system. This will enable the RTO to track violations in real time and issue challans online, ensuring prompt action against violators.
Expansion of the system across the state
The project, which is starting in Shimla, will soon be expanded to other districts of Himachal Pradesh. The transport department will issue instructions to the RTOs of various districts and a detailed review will be done to determine how many cameras are installed in each city. Special attention will be given to important points like check posts entering the state, where vehicles entering and exiting the state will be closely monitored.
A meeting of all the RTOs is scheduled to be held soon, where they will discuss ways to strengthen the system and improve monitoring. Transport Director DC Negi will oversee the project and ensure that the new online challan system is effectively implemented across the state.
Centralized control for traffic monitoring
A centralized control room is also being set up at the Transport Directorate, where all CCTV cameras in urban areas will be connected. This control room will allow officials to monitor the traffic situation in real time from their offices. Shimla RTO, Anil Sharma, is actively managing the project and has already coordinated with the district police to ensure smooth integration of the camera system with the RTO operations.
Strict action on traffic violations
Once this system becomes operational, strict action will be taken against drivers violating traffic rules. Penalties will be imposed for offences such as driving without seat belts, overloading buses, driving without permits and avoiding toll payments. The transport department is spending lakhs of rupees annually on road safety measures and awareness campaigns to prevent accidents. However, human error remains the major cause of accidents, so the department is keen to use technology to fill the gaps where enforcement staff cannot be physically present.
The new online challan system is expected to significantly improve traffic discipline in the state, ensuring that violators are caught and fined efficiently. The project is expected to become fully operational soon, with Shimla setting the model for other districts.
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