BENGALURU: In an attempt to reduce confrontations between traffic policemen and motorists who are caught violating traffic rules, Bengaluru Traffic Police will get 50 body-worn cameras by the first week of November.
Traffic policemen will have to wear the bodycams that weigh less than 150 gm on their uniforms during duty hours. It can record traffic violations and conversations in high quality audio and video up to 10 hours.
The plan to procure bodycams is expected to reduce complaints against traffic policemen allegedly misbehaving with motorists or fleecing them by slapping false cases. Also, there are instances of unruly motorists who refuse to accept that he/she has violated traffic rules and allege that the traffic cop demanded money.
“We have already placed orders for the bodycams. The cameras will also be used to capture video and images in case of a road accident or violence. If required, the footage will also be used as evidence in court proceedings,” said a senior police officer.
Another traffic police official said they can keep track on the behaviour of police officers and also provide corrective training measures based on the footage. Many motorists also welcomed the move. “It’s good to have body-worn cameras as the Centre is planning to increase fines for various traffic violations,” said K Ramagowda, from Indiranagar.
While many metros in the country are already using bodycams for several years, Bengaluru traffic police are introducing it only now. In June this year, Cyberabad Traffic Police, for instance, launched eye cameras that are worn as goggles and can capture pictures of traffic offenders.
But, Bengaluru traffic police officials said they don’t have any plans to procure eye cameras as of now.