Traffic Police Booths set-up throughout the city by Smart and Sustainable City Development Corporation Limited (NSSCDCL) at 78 locations are coming in handy for the traffic police constables. These traffic police booths are protecting them from the chilling winds, scorching heat and monsoon rain. One of the notable developments under this initiative is the introduction of smart traffic booths which are helping in traffic management systems. These Smart Traffic Booths not only aim to streamline the flow of traffic but also ensure the comfort and safety of traffic police on streets. These booths provide shelter and a vantage point for traffic constables to manage traffic more effectively, especially during extreme weather conditions.

 

These booths are equipped with solar panels on the top and have facilities like a fan, first-aid box, fire extinguisher, seating arrangement, potable water, mike and a biometrics door. The traffic constables in the booths are equipped with walkie-talkies, allowing them to stay in constant communication with senior officers. Additionally, with cameras installed at key locations throughout the city, senior officers can monitor traffic in real time and provide guidance to constables based on the current traffic situation. This set-up proves especially useful during rallies, major events, celebrations, or medical emergencies, as it enables seamless traffic management from the booths, said Dr Sheel Ghule, General Manager of E-Governance Department of Nagpur Smart City. Saumya Sharma Chandak, CEO, NSSCDCL, stated that, Smart traffic booths have been designed by Nagpur Smart City with a view to integrate smooth traffic management with convenience for the traffic cops. Traffic personnel have to brave heat, rain and pollution while discharging their duties. The booths provide them with the option of managing traffic from the comfort of the fully- equipped booths, thereby enhancing their output.

 

The concept of the booths has invoked interest from other cities as well, which are looking to replicate the idea. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Archit Chandak, said, the constables are using Public Announcement System installed in the booths to regulate traffic system in the city. These booths are for the welfare of the cops and are equipped with all the needed facilities. This helps in professionalism in smart policing from the smart booths. Pooja Tripathi, a traffic constable with the Maharashtra Police and posted at Sitabuldi, called them an invaluable asset to her team. “These booths help us to stay alert and efficient on the roads throughout the year. They allow us to closely monitor traffic conditions and respond quickly to incidents.

 

The ability to communicate directly with drivers from inside the booth significantly enhances both our efficiency and safety,” Tripathi explained. With features like a microphone, two chairs, and a fan, the booths offer a comfortable and functional space, ensuring officers can perform their duties with ease. “The traffic booth allows us to have a clear view of traffic from a distance. From inside the booth, we can direct riders to stay behind the zebra crossing and ensure pedestrians walk on the footpath, prioritising their safety. With the microphone, we continuously monitor riders, reminding them to follow traffic rules. We can also make announcements about helmet usage, road safety, and the importance of slow driving—all without leaving the booth. This system makes traffic management more efficient and manageable,” Vikram Shinde, Traffic Constable, Nagpur Police said.