As a car owner in India, one of the most frustrating experiences is receiving a traffic challan. Annoying as it may be, following traffic rules keeps pedestrians and drivers safe. Further, the hefty fines and penalties associated with these violations can quickly add up and cause a significant dent in your finances.
Since not everyone is aware of the rules, awareness campaigns go a long way in addressing the issue. Here are a few points to help you learn more about traffic rules and why you need to know them.
Importance of Public Awareness Campaigns
Public awareness campaigns are an effective way to educate people about the importance of traffic rules and regulations. These campaigns should be designed to create a sense of responsibility among the public towards following traffic rules and regulations.
These campaigns may be carried out through various mediums:
Billboards
Posters
Radio
Television
Social media platforms
One of the most successful public awareness campaigns launched in India was the 'Zebra Crossing' campaign. The campaign aimed to promote the use of zebra crossings and to educate people about its importance. It used the simple, yet effective approach by using a zebra's stripes to represent the crossing and make it visually appealing. The campaign was a massive success and led to a significant reduction in pedestrian fatalities.
Another successful campaign was the 'Helmet Saves' campaign. The campaign aimed to promote the use of helmets while riding a two-wheeler and used powerful visuals and slogans to drive home the message. The campaign was launched in several states in India and led to a significant increase in the number of people using helmets.
Role of Education Programmes
The government of India has launched several education programmes in recent years to promote road safety. One of the most successful programs is the 'Road Safety Week' programme. It is observed every year in January and aims to promote road safety through rallies, seminars, and workshops.
Another successful education program is the 'Road Safety Patrol' programme. It involves school children and tries to educate them about traffic rules. The programme trains students to become road safety patrollers who assist traffic police in regulating vehicular movement during peak hours.
Government Initiatives
The Indian government has taken several initiatives to reduce traffic challan violations. One such initiative is the introduction of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act 2019. This act has significantly increased the penalties for traffic violations, making people more cautious while driving.
These are the documents you need to carry to avoid being fined:
Valid licence
Registration certificate
Pollution under control certificate
Insurance policy (Third-party liability)
Tips to Avoid Traffic Challan Violations
Here are some tips to avoid traffic challan violations:
Always wear a seatbelt while driving
Follow the speed limit and traffic signals
Avoid using your mobile phone while driving
Do not drink and drive
Always carry your driving license and other necessary documents
Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and has all the necessary permits
Streamlining the Process with Technology
The introduction of e-challans and digital payment options has made it easier for traffic police to issue challans and collect fines. This has also made it more convenient for car owners to pay their fines and avoid the hassle of going to the traffic police station.
Here's how you can pay the challan online:
Challans can be paid only through individual state websites.
Enter your vehicle licence number and challan number.
Confirm details of the vehicle and traffic offence, and then pay the amount specified.
Download an e-receipt.
Take the safer route
Traffic challan violations are a significant problem in India, but they can be reduced through public awareness campaigns and education programs. These campaigns and programmes should be designed to educate people about traffic rules and regulations, safe driving practices, and the consequences of traffic violations.
While a lot is being done, the government should allocate more resources to promote road safety and reduce traffic challan violations. It is time that we all take responsibility for our actions on the road and promote a culture of road safety in India.
The Park+ app is an excellent example of how technology can help car owners become aware of road safety rules and norms of traffic challan violations. The checking challan webpage on Park+ provides reliable information on different aspects of car ownership, including checking your challan status.