Pune: Traffic Buddy Initiative in Pimpri Chinchwad Empowers Residents as Police’s Eyes and Ears
Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Pimpri Chinchwad, 16th April 2025: Residents of Pimpri Chinchwad can now directly report traffic congestion, deteriorated roads, traffic rule violations, and illegal parking to the Traffic Branch of the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate (PCPC) through the newly launched ‘Traffic Buddy’ initiative. Citizens can file traffic-related complaints via WhatsApp at 8788649885.
Commissioner of Police Vinoy Kumar Choubey announced that the initiative will soon be fully implemented, facilitating the issuance of online challans to traffic violators. Choubey expressed confidence that citizens would serve as the police’s CCTV, enhancing traffic management across the city.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Police Commissioner’s Office, which also provided updates on the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate’s website, the Traffic Buddy program, and a dedicated application (app) for senior citizens. Additional Police Commissioner Vasant Pardeshi, Deputy Commissioners of Police Sandeep Doifode, Swapna Gore, Vishal Gaikwad, Dr. Shivaji Pawar, and Bapu Bangar were present.
The Traffic Buddy initiative will also address road maintenance issues by forwarding information about potholes to the relevant government organisations. Follow-up actions will be taken at the end of each month if repairs are not carried out, with the police coordinating with the concerned authorities to resolve the problems. Artificial intelligence will be used to analyze continuously reported issues and identify effective solutions.
The Traffic Buddy service requires no app download and is accessible via WhatsApp at 8788649885. Sending a “Hi” or “Hello” message allows citizens to navigate the options and file complaints. Complainants will receive updates on the status of their reports and the actions taken. The initial version (beta version) has been introduced, and the fully functional service will be launched soon, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in the city.
An app is also under development for senior citizens, providing information on ambulances, nearby hospitals, and government medical schemes, as well as precautions against cyber fraud. The app will offer urgent assistance to senior citizens and is expected to launch shortly.
The PCPC’s website – pcpc.gov.in has been updated with a new feedback form for citizens to share their experiences with the police. Online submission of tenant information is now available, and separate sections have been created for traffic challan information and fine payments.
CP Vinoy Kumar Choubey stated, “Traffic Buddy is a location-based initiative, preventing false information and ensuring complainants receive updates on the actions taken. Citizens can also provide suggestions to improve the traffic system. This initiative will inform citizens about traffic changes in their local area and marks the first such program by a police commissionerate in the state.”
