Kochi: A total of 303 traffic offences were detected and the offenders penalised in the last two months on 13 arterial roads in the city. The credit goes to a group of students of Cochin University of Science and Technology rather than the MVD officers.
The 60 NSS volunteers from Cusat took 250 clicks of people violating traffic and road safety rules as part of 'Third Eye’, a photography contest-cum-road safety programme implemented by the Motor Vehicles Department over the last two months from November 4.
The volunteers monitored these roads and the MVD initiated action against the offenders with their photos as proof. "The initiative was a success. The road accidents in these areas showed a reduction during this period after the people realised that they were being watched by a third eye," said Mr I. Shafiq, an MVD officer and winner of the state wildlife photography contest who is the brain behind the initiative.
Helmetless ride, driving without wearing seatbelts, talking over mobile phones and scant regard for pedestrians formed bulk of the traffic offences brought to the notice of the department. "We also got shocking videos of three minor girls riding a bike without helmet. All were booked and penalised. They were also made to sit in the two-hour-long classes," the officer said.
"Last year, the Ernakulam office alone realised Rs 3.42 crore towards penalty which shows the gravity of careless driving," said Mr K.M. Shaji, RTO.
A jury of experts selected Yasin M. Kabir for the top prize in the contest. He was given a cash prize of Rs 15,000 and an appreciation letter.
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