Bhubaneswar, March 9: From now on, commuters can switch on FM radio channels to get traffic information on the move.
The service to air traffic related information across the city on FM radio channels was launched here today.
The service, which is intended to create public awareness on road safety while disseminating traffic related information, will enable residents to take alternative routes during rallies, dharnas and blockades or road mishaps. The police have roped in three FM radio channels (Radio Chocolate 104 FM, 92.7 Big FM and 93.5 Red FM) and one community radio (Voice of SOA Community 90.4 FM) for this purpose.
Police commissioner R.P. Sharma said the number of vehicles plying in the twin cities has reached 16 lakh. "We are hopeful of reaching out to the commuters through radio, and the service would definitely help them," said Sharma.
The police said traffic related information would be obtained from CCTVcameras installed at 28 major locations in the city. "Our men would keep tabs on the traffic through the CCTV cameras. If any problem arises, we will inform the commuters through radio channels about the possible alternative routes," said a police official.
The police said the new service would help commuters, especially those travelling on the National Highway No. 5, in the event of any road blockade or mishap. "With the ongoing expansion of the highway, the commuters are forced to remain stranded during any road mishap. We would disseminate traffic information about the traffic scenario on the highway through very high frequency sets, which can be further sent to radio broadcasters," said a police official.
The police said dissemination of traffic updates through radio channels had been an integral part of several Indian cities, including Patna, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad.
"We will air traffic related information thrice a day initially with major focus on the peak hours. Besides, we will also inform the listeners about rules such as the use of helmet and seat belt while driving," said senior producer-cum-radio jockey of Red FM Karan.
