Himachal to launch online challan system for traffic violations, starting from Shimla
In a major step to improve road safety and enforce traffic regulations, Himachal Pradesh is set to introduce an online challan system, beginning with its capital, Shimla. This new system will enable the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to issue digital fines for traffic violations, using CCTV cameras installed in key urban areas. These cameras, which are currently monitored by the police, will soon be connected to the RTOs, allowing them to directly issue fines for offenses such as driving without a seat belt, overloading vehicles, and more.
The initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to enhance road safety. The Transport Department, working alongside the police, has already placed CCTV cameras at strategic locations like bus stops and high-traffic areas. In Shimla, almost all critical points are now under surveillance, and the process of linking these cameras with the RTO’s control system is underway. This integration will allow the RTO to monitor traffic violations in real-time and issue fines online, ensuring quick and efficient enforcement.
Once the project is fully operational in Shimla, it will gradually extend to other districts in the state. The Transport Department will instruct RTOs in various regions and conduct a detailed review of the number of cameras installed in each city. Special focus will be placed on key areas such as state entry check posts, where vehicles entering and exiting Himachal Pradesh will be closely watched.
An upcoming meeting of all RTOs will focus on strengthening the system and improving traffic monitoring. Transport Director DC Negi is overseeing the project, ensuring its smooth implementation across the state. A centralized control room is being set up at the Transport Directorate, where feeds from urban CCTV cameras will be monitored in real-time by officers. Anil Sharma, Shimla’s RTO, is actively managing the project and has been working closely with the district police to integrate the camera systems seamlessly with the RTO’s operations.
Once the online challan system is in place, strict penalties will be imposed for violations such as not wearing seat belts, overloading buses, operating vehicles without permits, and skipping toll payments. The Transport Department has invested significant funds in road safety measures and awareness campaigns, but with human error still being a leading cause of accidents, they are turning to technology to enhance enforcement where physical staff presence is limited.
The new online challan system is expected to greatly improve traffic discipline, ensuring that violators are swiftly penalized. With Shimla as the pilot location, the project is set to roll out across other districts, setting a model for road safety and traffic management in the state.
