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In a major step towards enhancing transparency and compliance in traffic enforcement, the Delhi Traffic Police has launched a new system to deliver real-time traffic challan notifications directly via WhatsApp, aiming to reduce the common excuse of “no SMS received,” frequently heard during Lok Adalat proceedings.
Until now, motorists received e-challan intimation primarily through SMS, with details uploaded on the Parivahan portal, linked to the mobile number registered in the VAHAN database. However, many vehicle owners either overlooked the messages or failed to check the portal, ultimately discovering pending fines only during document renewal or legal proceedings.
Under the new mechanism, whenever a vehicle is recorded violating traffic norms, whether through speed cameras, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) systems, or other electronic monitoring devices, an instant WhatsApp alert will be issued. This message will include essential particulars such as:
- Nature of violation
- Date and time
- Location
- Penalty amount
- Motorists will also have the facility to verify and clear dues through the Delhi Traffic Police portal, ensuring a seamless process.
Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Ajay Chaudhary, emphasized the objective behind the initiative,“We aim to make traffic enforcement more transparent and user-friendly. Vehicle owners are advised to update their contact details on their Registration Certificates to ensure uninterrupted communication.”
The initiative is anchored under Rule 167A of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, which governs electronic enforcement of road safety, including issuing challans based on digital evidence.
Despite large-scale issuance of e-challans, non-payment remains a pressing concern. Between January 1 and July 31, over 22 lakh challans were issued in Delhi, yet nearly 98% remain unpaid. The highest unpaid categories include:
Improper/obstructive parking: Over 7.2 lakh challans, barely 27,000 paid
Driving without helmet: 4.2 lakh challans, just over 5,100 paid
Driving without licence: 3.2 lakh challans, fewer than 2,600 paid
Traffic officials believe that direct WhatsApp alerts will eliminate non-receipt claims and significantly improve timely compliance. As one senior officer noted, “Once messages reach vehicle owners on WhatsApp, the ‘I never got it’ defence will no longer hold ground.”
ADHIVAKTA VANI