2 weeks Ago
Chennai: The city traffic police are set to expand their initiative by training an additional 50 officers as ‘ smart cops ' to manage key traffic intersections. This programme targets police constables who possess the right physical fitness, expertise, and the ability to effectively manage high-traffic areas. Many traffic cops showed interest in joining this initiative, with senior officers specializing in traffic management conducting two-hour daily training sessions.
They will be initially posted at places which are less congested and later move on to congested locations. These officers will be equipped with baton lights and deployed at major congestion hotspots , such as Anna Salai, Anna Flyover, Gandhi Statue, Gengu Reddy Subway, Egmore, Ega Junction, and Kilpauk. As part of their training, they will learn hand signals, as well as how to adjust traffic signal timings based on real-time traffic flow to reduce congestion.
In the event of a signal malfunction, these officers will manually take control of traffic. Additionally, the smart cops will familiarise themselves with alternate routes and U-turn locations to assist stranded vehicles. "We decided to expand the program, as these officers effectively managed traffic and helped reduce congestion during peak hours," said R Sudhakar, additional commissioner of traffic.
The training also covers turnouts, where vehicles must yield or change lanes, as well as soft skills and stress management to ensure officers can handle high-pressure situations effectively..
