Patna: Next time you break a traffic rule, be ready to get an e-challan on the spot. The transport department on Friday rolled out spot fines through hand-held devices.

"Various guidelines have been issued by the Supreme Court to regulate traffic violations keeping road safety in view," said transport secretary Sanjay Kumar Agarwal. "In light of the guidelines, e-challan system through hand-held device has been enforced under the supervision of SP (superintendent of police) traffic, Patna, and enforcement officers."

Ten devices are being used right now, and 200 more will be deployed soon.

On Friday, the first day the devices were used, Agarwal, traffic SP P.N. Mishra and district transport officer Ajay Kumar Thakur began issuing e-challans on Bailey Road.

Traffic violations by vehicle drivers will be monitored continuously. The challan will incorporate the specific violation and penalty to be realised. The driver and vehicle owner penalised will have to pay the penalty on the spot.

"In special cases, if penalty cannot be paid on the spot, it can be paid within 15 days in the office of the authorised challan-issuing authority," Agarwal said.

In the coming days, the transport department will also introduce a facility to pay fine through debit and credit cards on the spot.

"The digitisation and documentation of records will help improve visibility of offenders, identify types of offences frequently committed and ensure payment is received on time," Agarwal said. "Repeated offences will lead to cancellation of driving licence."