Body cameras keep an eye on both motorists, cops

To monitor interaction between traffic policemen and motorists and to bring in transparency in the system, the traffic police have received body cameras.

The body cameras will also be helpful in initiating action against those who flout rules.

The ASIs and PSIs of the traffic police are discharging their duties by wearing body cameras for the last 15 days.

This will also ensure strict enforcement of traffic rules. It will also avoid confrontations between the traffic police and motorists who are stopped for violation of traffic rules. Further, it will also check the alleged bribery and atrocity by the police personnel.

The camera weighs 150 grams and will capture any activities within a 60-metre radius. The police department has supplied 20 such cameras to the traffic cops.

“Many a time, motorists don’t stop the vehicle even after signalling by the traffic police for checking of driving licence and other issues. Some of them even enter into a scuffle with the police. The body cameras will be helpful in serving notice to the erring motorists and also in capturing the photo and video of the incident,” said a traffic cop.

The usage of the camera is simple. All one has to do is to wear it on his shirt and press the on button. The traffic police serving near City Municipal Council office, Dantaramakki Kere, NMC Circle, DACG Polytechnic Circle and other places are wearing such cameras while on duty.

The footage of each camera is verified by an inspector and DySP in the evening.

SP Harish Pandey said, “10 body cameras have been given to Chikkamagaluru, five to Sringeri and five to Koppa-N R Pur. The footage of every fine imposed on motorists is mandatory. There has been a behavioural change in the traffic policemen as well.”

“We will seek additional 20 body cameras. The case against drunken driving will be accelerated,” he added.