Police hit bullseye within a day of launching the WhatsApp complaint platform for reporting traffic rule violations on the city roads.

The commuters gave an overwhelming response to the popular messaging application launched to collect information and evidence about traffic rule violations. On Sunday, the traffic police received 70 responses from residents on its number, 9234500601. One of the pictures clicked by a commuter showed a cop riding a bike without a helmet.

'We got a picture from a resident showing a helmetless police officer riding a bike, the registration number of which was clearly visible. The cop was slapped with a fine of Rs 100 for which he would get a challan by post. He can contact any of the three traffic deputy superintendents of police once he receives the challan. Some more people have also been fined similarly,' said traffic superintendent of police (SP) P.K. Das.

Stating that the introduction of the messaging application would empower the people of Patna, the traffic police formally launched the service on Sunday at the start of the weeklong Road Safety Week. On Monday, the Patna SP (traffic) said over 70 messages and pictures of different kinds of traffic offenders had been received.

'The overwhelming response reflects the people's consciousness and dislike for traffic rule violations. We are sure to receive many more pictures and messages,' said the SP.

The officer said most pictures received were related to wrong parking and helmetless bikers. The police would monitor the picture first and check its authenticity before penalising the offenders.

The receipt of the fine would be sent to the address of the vehicle/bike owner.