FCT ANNOUNCES PLAN TO INTRODUCE E-TICKETING TO TACKLE TRAFFIC OFFENCES

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The Directorate of Road Traffic Services, Mr. Abdulateef Bello, has announced that it is working tirelessly to launch its e-ticketing and central booking scheme for motorists in the Federal Capital Territory.

This was disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja.

According to the director, the implementation of this technological system would significantly reduce, and eliminate physical interactions between DRTS operatives and motorists on the roads.

He explained that to achieve this, the service had engaged multiple service providers specialising in electronic traffic management and penalty systems.

“Some of these companies were engaged on a Proof of Concept basis, initially installing their devices at strategic locations in the FCT and demonstrating their ability to interpret infractions and administer penalties.

“Following this, we’ll seek regulatory approval, submit it to the Abuja Investment Company for analysis, and then proceed to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission before formal procurement.

“We must adhere to the regulatory process, but all being well, we anticipate that some of these systems will be operational by the first quarter of next year,” he said.

Bello added that electronic enforcement would actively tackle vehicle offences and enhance safety on FCT roads.

“The question of whether vehicle inspection officers will be in conflict with the motoring public will soon be a thing of the past, as we are diligently working towards this goal; it’s a work in progress.

“As soon as you commit an infraction, our officers will simply issue a ticket, and you’ll receive an alert on your phone, provided the vehicle is registered in the FCT.

“You can continue driving to your destination, but you’ll receive an alert detailing the infraction, the fine, and a prompt to pay,” he explained.

He noted that the service had appealed a court judgement restricting DRTS operatives from impounding defaulting vehicles.

“Our personnel currently undergoing training on the e-ticketing scheme, while those on the road are doing their best to coordinate traffic.

“We also have the Abuja Inspector App in use by our officers to verify motorists’ compliance,” Bello said.

Bello stressed that under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the service would not permit any gaps in vehicle administration enforcement in the FCT.

He advised motorists to obey traffic regulations, register and renew vehicle papers, and update their driver’s licences on time to remain compliant with the law.

“This is because the DRTS is working hard to transform its operations to provide efficient services befitting the FCT’s status.

“We are also making progress towards a paperless motor vehicle administration system, which will be included in next year’s budget,” he said.

(NAN)