Managing traffic is one of the most stressful jobs that a policeman undertakes on the mean streets of Mumbai. Battling road rage, pollution and incessant honking can make constables a hard reed to tackle. Here's how to ensure a smooth ride
Managing traffic is one of the most stressful jobs that a policeman undertakes on the mean streets of Mumbai. Battling road rage, pollution and incessant honking can make constables a hard reed to tackle. Here's how to ensure a smooth ride
When noted playback singer Asha Bhosle branded the city's traffic police as a force that lacks "civility", it ruffled a few feathers and created quite a stir. 
Compiled/Poornima Swaminathan Pic/Sayed Sameer Abedi
Giving a serious ear to the singer's greviance, the state government decided to hold workshops for the traffic cops to hone their people's skills.
But as a common man and a motorist stuck for hours in lines of traffic, it is not uncommon for one to blow their lid at the slightest provocation. After all, the outburst could be a result of stress at work and home, the bumper-to-bumper traffic and to top it all, the traffic constable who refuses to budge.
Chances are, more often than not, you may end up losing your cool and in return, pay a heavy price for it.
However, one must remember that the traffic cop is perhaps more worked up than you are; doubles up on shifts that are meant for two constables and doesn't get paid enough for it.
So it is important that you know your rights as a motorist and also the job of a constable to avoid ugly spats on the streets. This is a guide issued by the Mumbai police to ensure a smooth ride:u00a0
Here's a quick Manual on the dos and don'ts when you encounter a traffic cop:u00a0
1. Stop your vehicle when a traffic policeman orders you to do so.
2. You may ask him the reason behind asking you to stop the vehicle
3. Do not argue with the policeman. If you feel there is a genuine argument for you breaking a rule, explain it to him.
4. If you have committed a mistake admit it candidly, seek his pardon. He may let you off with a warning if approached with courtesy.
5. Do not drop names of other policemen and influential people.
6. If the policeman is insistent, show him the required documents, and allow him to take whatever action falls within the purview of his duties.
What to do if your license is impounded?
1.The traffic cop may note down the particulars of your license which will be later forwarded to a court.
2.The court will then issue instructions regarding the course of action to be taken; a certain amount may have to be paid as a fine.
3.If you plead guilty and send the requisite amount, the case will be filed; else summons will be sent to you and the case will be judged on merit.
4.If your license is impounded, then a temporary license will be issued (The temporary license lasts only for a stipulated period).
5.You may compound the offence by paying a fine at the police station under whose jurisdiction the license was confiscated. Else you will be provided a notice from the court.
6.If you fail to appear in the court, an arrest warrant may be issued.
Thumb rule:
1. A traffic policeman in uniform has the right to ask for your driver's licence and inspect your vehicle's documents. He may impound your licence if he deems it necessary.
2. If a traffic policeman gives you instructions on the road, it is your duty to obey them, regardless of what the electronic traffic signals say. When a traffic policeman is stationed at a signal/crossing, he is the final authority.
3. If you cannot find your vehicle, it is likely that it has been towed rather than stolen. Ask local shopkeepers, as they are aware where confiscated vehicles are kept.
If harassed by a traffic policeman, here's what you should do:
1. If a traffic policeman harasses you for illegal gratification, never yield to his demands.
2. Allow him to impound your licence; do not attempt to bribe him even if coerced.
3. Note down his buckle number/name which will be written on the plate of his shirt. If he does not have one, you may demand his identity card. If he fails to provide identity, refuse to give him your documents.
4. All receipts, temporary licences will have the name/buckle number of the officer.
5. You can approach the traffic police with a specific complaint indicating all the particulars about the incident. This MUST include details about the concerned police officer. It is desirable to send this complaint by registered post.
Some Important offences:
1. Not carrying a valid licence while driving/ driving without a licence
2. Allowing a vehicle to be driven by someone who does not have a licence
3. Driving without insurance/permit
4. Speeding/reckless driving
5. Driving under the influence of alcohol
6. Lane-cutting/dangerous lane-cutting
7. Moving against a one-way
8. Stopping at a pedestrian crossing/crossing a stop line
9. Overloading a goods vehicle
10. Carrying goods in a dangerous manner
11. Taxi drivers refusing to ply/charging extra/not wearing uniform
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