RTOs can help unruly motorists learn traffic manners

Vivek Phansalkar, joint commissioner of police (traffic), tells dna how traffic movement would improve if motorists follow the basic traffic norms:

Can following traffic rules help reduce traffic jams in the city?
Yes, definitely. If every person follows the basic traffic rules and regulations it would help to a great extent as motorists would know what to expect from the vehicles ahead. For example, heavy vehicles such as trucks and BEST buses should stick to the left lane. However, nobody follows the norms and the traffic movement is disrupted if heavy vehicles move from left to right.

How can people be educated about traffic rules?
Motorists should have a strong traffic sense. People follow rules only when they spot a traffic constable on the road. This is not a sign of a disciplined driver. People should educate themselves about traffic rules and regulations and follow them.

Can RTOs play a role to reduce chaos on roads?
Yes, RTOs can play a very important role by bringing in discipline. An applicant should earn a driving licence after going through a strict, difficult and processed procedure. It is only after making sure that the applicant has followed and learned all traffic manners that he/ she be given a licence. 

Can increasing the fine amount bring about traffic regulation?
Yes, it can help but only to a certain extent. Only if everyone is educated enough to follow traffic rules that it would make a difference.

Would increasing traffic policemen help solve the problem?
It might help but again only to some extent. It is impossible to deploy a traffic constable behind each vehicle to ensure they are following rules. Motorists should follow the rules daily.