After failing miserably to implement lane discipline, Bangalore’s traffic department has introduced a new campaign, Public Eye. Citizens can now upload pictures of traffic offenders on the Bangalore Traffic Police (BTP) website. The initiative which is not even a week old has received a positive response with more than 180 pictures being uploaded by the public.
Speaking to City Express, Additional Commissioner of Traffic, M A Saleem said, “Most of the offences that have come to light are parking violations like parking on footpaths, vehicles parked in front of residences, etc. We have started sending out notices for these offences to the owners of the vehicles.”
Traffic expert, M N Sreehari, who has been one of the prominent members of the Traffic Advisory Committee has played a major role in introducing this initiative. He said, “This is one of the most progressive BTP project. However, the purpose will be best served only when the common man is aware of the initiative. Youngsters in the age group of 18-25 years of age should be able to make use of this service extensively. Hence, we have decided to screen a short-film in all movie theaters during the interval. We have already acquired the rights and spoken to the concerned authorities for the same.”
The movie will play snippets of real interviews of victims of accidents where they will narrate their story. This is aimed at creating more awareness among the public and thereby increase participation in the drive. Sreehari says, “We are looking at creating a momentum and reach a wider spectrum of people. Public involvement always brings good results and we are looking forward to that.”
It was revealed that road safety may also be included as a subject in school curriculum soon.
Sreehari informed City Express, “We are in talks with the education department to include a subject on road safety in schools. It can be introduced at the primary as well as higher secondary level as children are ones who are more prone to accidents.”