In a bid to tackle the issue of traffic violations more effectively, the Bihar Police have implemented a new system for issuing e-challans to traffic violators. According to Additional Director General (ADG) Traffic Sudhanshu Kumar, the new system involves sending e-challans to motorists via registered post, a departure from the previous practice of sending them through SMS.
The decision to switch to registered post delivery was prompted by the challenges encountered with the SMS-based system, particularly due to frequent changes in offenders’ mobile phone numbers. Speaking to PTI, ADG Traffic Kumar highlighted the limitations of the SMS-based approach and emphasized the need for a more reliable alternative.
The new system has already been introduced in Patna, with plans to extend it to all districts in Bihar. Kumar explained that while the traffic police are currently bearing the cost of sending e-challans via registered post, efforts are underway to recover these costs from the offenders themselves.
Official data indicates a significant number of daily e-challans issued for various traffic violations in Bihar, including over-speeding, signal jumping, helmetless riding, and mobile phone usage while driving. However, less than half of these e-challans are being paid by motorists, leading to a substantial backlog of pending fines.
As of February 8, 2024, a total of 2,989 e-challans were issued across all 38 districts in Bihar, amounting to ₹46.5 lakh in fines. However, only ₹6.44 lakh of this total has been cleared by motorists, leaving a significant portion of fines pending. ADG Traffic Kumar expressed concern over the high rate of non-payment and emphasized the need for a more effective enforcement mechanism.
The city of Patna ranks highest in terms of traffic violations, with approximately 630 to 650 e-challans issued daily for various infractions. Other cities with notable traffic violation rates include Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Rohtas, Gaya, Begusarai, and Saran.
In light of these challenges, the decision to transition to registered post delivery for e-challans represents a proactive step by the Bihar Police to improve compliance with traffic regulations and enhance road safety. By leveraging this new system, authorities aim to streamline the enforcement process and ensure greater accountability among motorists.
