Kolkata Traffic Police asks citizens to use its one-stop traffic helpline 1073 for all complaints, emergencies
Kolkata, Aug 5
Kolkata Traffic Police has asked the citizens to use its one-stop traffic helpline 1073 for all traffic-related complaints and emergencies, mentioning that the dedicated number is designed to ensure quicker traffic police response across the city.
According to the police, any traffic-related issue including traffic jams, parking-related problems, information about road accidents, malfunctioning traffic signals, disruption of traffic due to broken down vehicles parked on the road, illegal parking, road closures or problems with traffic can be reported through this helpline. In addition, if traffic police intervention is needed on an urgent basis, that information can also be conveyed through this number from any part of the city.
As soon as the complaint is received, the matter will be conveyed to the concerned traffic guard or responsible officer and efforts will be made to take immediate action.
An official of Kolkata Traffic Police said, "Kolkata Traffic Police is always by the side of its citizens to ensure safe, comfortable and smooth travel of citizens."
According to Kolkata Traffic Police, the role of the common man in controlling traffic in the city is very important. Sometimes, there is a delay in the police receiving information about accidents, traffic jams or any other problem in an area. As a result, the situation becomes more complicated.
If the common man provides information quickly through this helpline, the police will be able to reach the spot quickly and take necessary measures. This will not only normalise traffic flow quickly, but also make the movement of emergency vehicles, such as ambulances or fire engines, much easier.
Especially during Diwali, Durga Puja, Christmas, New Year or other festive seasons, the pressure of traffic on Kolkata's roads increases several times. At that time, traffic jams, parking problems and traffic control become a big challenge. Therefore, the traffic police have urged citizens to use this helpline even before the festive season begins.
At the same time, it has been informed that this number can be contacted every day during office hours, school-college hours or on weekends for any traffic problem.
The traffic police claimed that the main aim of this initiative is not only to receive complaints, but also to facilitate direct communication between citizens and the police and ensure quick resolution of problems.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is a much-needed initiative. Last week an ambulance got stuck near Park Street for 20 minutes due to illegal parking. These small things cost lives. I just hope they have enough staff to handle the calls, especially during peak hours and festivals. 🤞
Good step but I am skeptical about accountability. What if we report an issue and no action is taken? Do we get a complaint number for tracking? These helplines often become just another number to call without any follow-up. I hope they have a proper system in place.
It's great to see the Kolkata Police embracing technology for better civic engagement. In Western cities, such helplines have made a real difference in emergency response times. If implemented well, this could genuinely improve traffic management, especially during the massive festivals you celebrate here.
As someone who drives from Salt Lake to Howrah daily, this is a relief. The number of broken-down vehicles blocking lanes is frustrating. But I request the police to also add WhatsApp support - in this digital age, sending a photo of the exact location would be much easier than explaining it verbally.
Impressive move! I've seen similar systems work effectively in London. The key is ensuring the call centres are properly staffed and there's a clear escalation matrix. Kolkata has the potential to become a model for other Indian cities in citizen-police collaboration.
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