H.P Police initiates traffic volunteer program

H.P Police initiates traffic volunteer program

Shimla, Dec 7

In a move to enhance road safety and traffic management, the Police department of Himachal Pradesh has officially launched a Traffic Volunteer Scheme. This initiative, designed to foster community participation, aims to bring about a positive shift in the state’s traffic regulation, road safety, and public awareness.

In a media communique Sanjay Kundu, Director General of Police stated that the Traffic Volunteers Scheme seeks to establish a voluntary force, aptly named Traffic Volunteers (TV), to execute the principles of community policing. The primary goal is to create a well-organized vehicular traffic flow, elevate the quality of service, and monitor traffic-related issues through increased public participation.

Noteworthy that Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, has witnessed a significant surge in tourism over the years. However, the state’s road network have not grown exponentially, especially in tourist favourite towns like Shimla, Manali, Dharmshala, etc.. This is accompanied by a considerable increase in the number of vehicles in such places. Resultingly this progress has also led to a rise in road accidents and traffic jams. Though the scheme may not be effective during the oncoming winter tourist season in December and January but the Traffic Volunteer program can emerge as a strategic response to this continued challenge.

“The community can support the Traffic Police and facilitate road users in a variety of ways including but not limited to, sharing of local knowledge of hazardous locations & movements, working as Traffic Volunteers to assist pedestrians and regulate traffic and campaigning for giving greater priority to road safety by the public and politicians,” added Kundu.

Under the Traffic Volunteers Scheme, individuals aged 18 and above are encouraged to actively participate in traffic management and awareness, he stated. Adding that the scheme envisions a diverse range of activities, including traffic management at key junctions, organizing awareness programs, sharing traffic-related information on social media, and creating educational content such as animated videos and virtual road signs.

He informed that a prospective Traffic Volunteers must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a commitment to traffic rules, a clean record, proficiency in English or Hindi, and a positive public image. Their duties range from assisting in traffic management and accident response to participating in awareness programs and promoting road safety.

To ensure clear identification, Traffic Volunteers will be provided with reflective safety jackets, caps, and ID cards prominently labeled ‘Traffic Volunteer.’ This visual distinction aims to set them apart from the Traffic Police, claimed the DGP.

Interested individuals can apply by submitting their applications via email or in person at designated locations. Selected candidates will undergo a two-day training program covering traffic regulations, Motor Vehicle Rules, and road safety norms at district Police Lines.

The success of the Traffic Volunteer Scheme will be assessed through monthly progress reports submitted by traffic in-charges and evaluations conducted by supervisory officers. Recognition or removal of volunteers will be based on their adherence to the law and positive contributions to the community.

The Director General of Police, Himachal Pradesh, emphasizes the importance of public participation in ensuring the success of the Traffic Volunteer Scheme. With the initial implementation in district headquarters, the scheme holds the promise of becoming a model for other regions in the state, he added.