Traffic Wardens to Use Body Cameras for Every Challan
Authorities have approved the purchase of 8,000 modern body cameras for traffic wardens in a major step towards video-based enforcement. A senior traffic police official said that, under the new system, every traffic challan will be supported by video evidence recorded through these cameras.
The move is designed to remove doubts about whether a violation actually took place and to reduce arguments on the roadside. Instead of relying only on verbal claims, officers will now have recorded footage to back up their decisions. This is expected to make enforcement more transparent and to provide a clear record in case of complaints or appeals.
Night Vision, Audio Recording and Real-Time Monitoring
The new body cameras come with a range of features aimed at making them effective in all kinds of traffic conditions. Officials say the cameras will support night vision, allowing traffic wardens to capture clear video even in low light or at night. Built-in audio recording will document conversations between wardens and citizens, providing a complete picture of each interaction.
All cameras will be connected to district control rooms and a central control room, where footage can be monitored and stored in real time. This central connectivity means that superiors can review incidents quickly, identify problem areas and use the footage for training and supervision. It also reduces the risk of tampering or loss of evidence, as data is uploaded and saved on secure systems instead of being stored only on the device.
QR Code Videos to Be Sent with Every Challan
One of the most important changes for motorists will be the way video evidence is shared. Under the new setup, each challan will be accompanied by a QR code linked to the video clip of the violation. This link will be sent directly to the mobile phone number of the concerned citizen.
By scanning the QR code, the driver will be able to see what the camera recorded at the time of the alleged offence. This approach is intended to build trust by letting citizens review the footage themselves, rather than relying only on written details printed on the challan. It should also help settle disputes more quickly, as both sides will have access to the same visual evidence.
Monitoring Behaviour of Both Wardens and Citizens
Officials emphasise that the cameras will not only record traffic violations by drivers, but will also monitor the conduct of traffic wardens. The goal is to improve accountability on both sides of the interaction. If a citizen claims that a warden behaved rudely, demanded a bribe or misused authority, the recorded footage can be reviewed to confirm what actually happened.
At the same time, if a citizen behaves aggressively or refuses to follow lawful directions, that behaviour will also be captured. This balanced approach is expected to protect honest officers from false allegations while making it easier to take action against those who do misuse their powers. Over time, authorities believe this will encourage more professional conduct and polite behaviour during traffic stops.
3,000 Cameras Already Procured, More Coming This Year
According to the DIG Traffic, around 3,000 body cameras have already been procured and are in the process of being rolled out to field staff. The remaining units will be purchased and deployed within the current financial year, bringing the total to 8,000.
Once fully implemented, the system will cover a large portion of on-road traffic enforcement teams, especially in busy urban areas. Officials say the initiative is expected to significantly strengthen traffic law enforcement, reduce on-the-spot disputes and improve public confidence in the challan process.
For road users, the key takeaway is that future traffic fines will increasingly be backed by video and audio evidence. Knowing that interactions are being recorded may also encourage both drivers and wardens to stay calm and follow the rules, creating a safer and more respectful traffic environment for everyone.
