Close
Igniting Ideas For impact

Embarking on a transformative journey through six chapters, we traverse India's landscape, exploring pioneering startups and their revolutionary...

9 months

Hyderabadis Are Getting Helmets From Cops Instead of Hefty Fines. Here’s Why!

"People were saying that the police is harassing citizens and charging hefty fines at the drop of a hat. We wanted to change that mindset." Well done, Hyderabad Traffic Police! #RespectRules #RoadSafety

Hyderabadis Are Getting Helmets From Cops Instead of Hefty Fines. Here’s Why!

While the country is amidst a furore around the newly-imposed traffic fines, Hyderabad Traffic Police (HTP) have arrived at a first-of-its-kind solution to school drivers who flout traffic rules.

Instead of levying challans, traffic cops in the cyber city are now helping traffic violators obtain licences, insurance and even helmets on the spot. The initiative, introduced from 14 September onwards, is the brainchild of N Divyacharan Rao, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) in Rachakonda, one among the three police commissionerate in Hyderabad.


Click here to buy eco-friendly waterless car wash and save water.


Speaking to The Better India, DCP Rao says,

There was a lot of backlash after the Central Government amended the traffic penalty rates. Most of the outrage was targeted toward the police. People would say that the police were harassing citizens and charging hefty fines at the drop of a hat. We wanted to change that mindset.

The initiative is applicable in case of four types of traffic violations – absence of helmet, driving licence, insurance and pollution certificate. 

The cops on duty are guiding the violators to acquire licence or pollution certificates, at the earliest, by registering at the relevant government websites. “Those driving without licence are instructed to register for a learner’s licence at the Telangana Transport Department e-portal, instead of demanding a Rs 5000 fine,” informs DCP Rao. 

For vehicles without insurance, the cops themselves are contacting government insurance portals and ensuring that the necessary documents are granted as soon as possible. Pollution certificates are being provided on the spot at a nominal cost of Rs 40-60, while the general fine happens to be a whopping Rs 5,000. 

Most interestingly, now there are also stacks of helmets available at traffic junctions which the drivers can buy then and there at Rs 800 each. The violators will be saving Rs 200 since the hiked fine for driving without a helmet is Rs 1,000. 

Following is a table of the types of traffic violations and the alternatives offered through the novel initiative of HTP.

Type of Violation

Penalty AmountHyderabad’s Alternative

Driving without licence

Rs 5000

Online registration for learner’s licence

Driving without helmet

Rs 1000

Buy helmet on-spot at Rs 800

Driving without pollution certificate (PUC)Rs 5000

Obtain instant pollution certificate at
Rs 40 (two-wheeler)
Rs 50 (four-wheeler)
Rs 60 (larger vehicle)

Driving without insuranceRs 2000

Connect directly with authorise govt. Insurance agents and avail insurance at Rs 1100

Within only a few days of its introduction, the initiative has garnered widespread appreciation from across the country. Social media is abuzz with praises for Telangana Traffic Police and netizens are demanding similar measures all over India. Hyderabad citizens are overjoyed at the much helpful alternative to humongous traffic fines.

“The idea is to raise awareness about the importance of traffic rules rather than spewing apathy among people about the police,” asserts DCP Rao.

“Everyone should be aware of the existing traffic rules and follow these willingly to ensure their own safety, rather than being afraid of the police or penalty,” he adds. 


Also Read: Obey Traffic Rules, Get Discount Coupons: Pune IPS Officer Rewards 15000 Citizens!


Image Credits: Rachakonda Police/Twitter
(Edited by Saiqua Sultan)

Like this story? Or have something to share?
Write to us: [email protected]
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

This story made me

  • feel inspired icon
    97
  • more aware icon
    121
  • better informative icon
    89
  • do something icon
    167

Tell Us More


We bring stories straight from the heart of India, to inspire millions and create a wave of impact. Our positive movement is growing bigger everyday, and we would love for you to join it.

Please contribute whatever you can, every little penny helps our team in bringing you more stories that support dreams and spread hope.

Support the biggest positivity movement section image Support the biggest positivity movement section image
Shorts

Shorts

See All
 
X
 
Sign in to get free benefits
  • Get positive stories daily on email
  • Join our community of positive ambassadors
  • Become a part of the positive movement