Sri Vijaya Puram, May 30: Road users in Sri Vijaya Puram and surrounding areas can expect smoother and safer commutes as the Andaman and Nicobar Police implement a comprehensive traffic modernization drive. The initiative, which includes the installation of surveillance cameras, upgraded traffic signals, a smarter e-challan system, and stricter enforcement of traffic violations, is already partially underway, with several components nearing full implementation.
As part of the Smart City project by the Sri Viajay Puram Municipal Council, around 280 surveillance cameras are to be installed across the city, with 21 already operational at key junctions and traffic choke points. A new automated traffic signalling system, expected to be operational within the next three to four months, is also in the pipeline to ease urban mobility challenges.
“We are working hard to put systems in place that benefit both the administration and the public,” a police official stated. “These measures are not just about enforcement, they’re about creating a safer, more orderly traffic environment for everyone.”
The department is transitioning from manual challans to a real-time e-challan system, allowing for immediate penalty issuance and digital record-keeping. Additionally, traditional driving licences are being converted into Smart Cards, enhancing security, reducing forgery, and streamlining verification processes.
Highlighting the importance of public involvement, DSP Ajay Rai told The Andaman Wave, “Without public support, no amount of infrastructure will work. We urge residents to follow traffic norms and report issues such as autorickshaw refusals and unauthorized parking.”
To curb noise and air pollution, the police have warned commercial vehicle operators, particularly bus and auto drivers, against practices like using multiple air horns, an offense that can now incur fines up to ₹5,000. Motorcyclists using modified silencers will also face increased penalties under the new enforcement regime.
Crackdowns on unauthorized parking, especially by commercial vehicles occupying road margins and no-parking zones, are being prioritized. Discussions are underway with the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council to designate dedicated parking zones, particularly in congested areas.
Public reaction to the changes has been cautiously optimistic. “It’s good to see the authorities taking urban traffic seriously,” said a commuter from Junglighat. “The cameras and signals make a huge difference, but implementation and follow-up are key. We hope the rules apply to everyone equally.”
A schoolteacher from Goal Ghar echoed these sentiments, stating, “E-challans and smart licences are a welcome change. But awareness is just as important. Maybe they can also conduct some road safety campaigns in schools and colleges.”
To enhance community involvement, the Traffic Police have encouraged residents to report issues like autorickshaw refusals, a common problem across the city. A dedicated helpline (100 or 238260) has been set up for grievance redressal.
As Sri Vijaya Puram moves toward becoming a tech-enabled, commuter-friendly city, the success of these efforts will largely depend on public cooperation and consistent enforcement by the authorities.
