Hyderabad Police may start deducting challans from FASTag

Hyderabad: Traffic challans may be deducted from FASTag accounts directly, according to the Cyberabad Traffic Joint Commissioner of Police, who said the proposal is being discussed with the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA).

At the 20th anniversary of the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), Jt CP Sunpreet Singh made the remarks as a panelist on the “Can We Change the Way We Move? Building Safer Roads Through People, Partnership & Technology” programme organised on Sunday, August 23.

Authorities are actively exploring ways to integrate technology in enforcement to make commuters follow traffic rules. Technology can be key in improving compliance with road-safety rules and limiting dependence on traditional enforcement methods, Singh said.

Response awaited from HMDA on FASTag challan collection

He said that the proposal to link challan collection with FASTag accounts was under consideration as part of efforts to make enforcement more functional. A formal response is awaited from the HMDA after discussions, Singh added.

While acknowledging that fines can “pinch the pocket,” he said that enforcement on its own may not be sufficient to bring an enduring behavioural change among people.

Technology-driven methods can help identify, recognise and encourage responsible behaviour and simultaneously create a safer driving culture in society, Singh said.

Highlighting the challenges in Hyderabad, as the city rapidly grew over the course of the last 20 years, Singh said that along with improved lifestyles and economic opportunities, it has also drastically increased traffic congestion and fatal accidents.

Responsibility for taking on these challenges rests with the government and the citizens as well, said Singh.

Public transport betterment

During the session, the Jt CP said that while the government has initiated measures to curb traffic, there is still a need for smoother integration of public transport and stronger last-mile connectivity, which refers to the availability of transport services such as metros and buses to reach the transport station.

Singh also called for several multi-level parking facilities, as they can significantly ease traffic congestion.

He emphasised the need for greater partnership between government agencies, police, technology providers, and citizens to work together and improve road safety.

Technology-driven enforcement combined with deterrence and positive reinforcement can help bring lasting changes in motorists’ behaviour and make roads in Hyderabad safer, Singh said.