Reporter’s diary: When campaigns to spread awareness on helmet rule pinch traffic cops’ pockets

A few traffic constables were heard complaining that they often have to fund activities from their own pockets, even though seniors say they can claim it later. At a recent event, a constable told this reporter, “We have been instructed to erect temporary shelters and tents to make offending motorists sit and educate them on the importance of wearing helmets and dangers of flouting traffic rules. But who will pay the rent for shamiana and chairs? Even if it is Rs 200 per day, it adds upto Rs 1,400 for a week,” said a traffic police personnel in the city.  

He pointed out that in the past, they could collect cash from traffic violators and a portion of it could be used for such petty expenses.

“Now, with fine collection made completely cashless to make it more transparent, the fines are directly remitted in the state treasury and we are having to shell money from our pockets as often there is no cash for petty expenses such as these,” said the traffic constable while striking a conversation with this scribe. “One hopes that the senior officials understand our plight and give us the money in advance,” he concluded.