Soon, you can snap that overspeeding car, and report to Chandigarh Police

Currently, the Chandigarh Traffic Police is operating the Traffic Sentinel scheme, under which residents can share images or videos of traffic offenders on the department’s social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and Instagram. While the response on these platforms has been encouraging, officials believe a dedicated mobile application will enhance efficiency and accuracy.

A traffic police officer explained that the proposed app will have geotagging facility, making it easier to pinpoint the exact location of a violation. “Social media posts often lack precise location details. With a dedicated app, the moment a user clicks a photo or records a video, the GPS coordinates will be captured automatically, ensuring accurate location data,” the officer said.

Another key feature of the app will be mandatory user registration, which officials say will add credibility and authenticity to the information being shared. However, the app will also offer an option for anonymity.

“If someone does not wish to disclose their identity due to fear of confrontation or retaliation, they can choose to remain anonymous while reporting the violation,” the officer added.

The app will allow road users to report a wide range of offences, including rash and dangerous driving, signal jumping, wrong-side driving, and improper parking. In addition, users who witness road accidents can upload visuals from the scene along with precise location details, enabling traffic police teams to reach the site faster and take timely action.

Once uploaded, the information will be transmitted directly to the traffic police’s central control room, where it will be scrutinised and forwarded to field units for prompt enforcement.

The Delhi Police’s Traffic Prahari app, which inspired the Chandigarh initiative, allows citizens to register using their mobile number and OTP and report multiple traffic violations.