Police challan 17,716 every day for traffic violation

The number of challans being issued by the traffic police under its 'Zero tolerance policy' have doubled this year. The move, besides, bringing down traffic violations has also resulted in a reduction of accidents during the period between January and April this year.

As on thill April this year, 21, 25,939 challans were issued by the police for various violations in comparison to 9,63,888 last year.

On an average around 17,716 people are being booked every day for violations including over speeding, jumping lanes, riding without helmet and wrong carriageway, among others while only 8,032 motorists were being challaned last year during this time.

According to data available, the number of road fatalities reduced by 18 per cent during this period. The number of fatal accidents came down to 433 from 527 last year.

"Our aim was to bring down road fatalities at least by 30%. Most accidents used to take place because of traffic violations such as over speeding, jumping lanes, use of mobile phones while driving, riding without helmet and coming on the wrong carriageway. The zero tolerance policy has had a good impact so far. However, we need to keep the momentum of the initiative to have sustained results," said a senior official.

Besides, the department is also updating the list of 129 accident-prone spots in the capital.

...& ANALYSIS

1. The drive to rein in traffic violators can be a good move if sustained
    
2. The number of fatalities being reduced has to be seen till the end of the year, as during winters the number of accidents taking place increases