Shimla: In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion and improve road safety, the Himachal Pradesh Police Department is set to launch the "Traffic Volunteer Scheme under which 100 volunteers would be deputed in the state.

This initiative, currently in its planning phase, aims to enlist the support of volunteers aged 18 and above to assist in traffic management at various key junctions.

Under the scheme, these volunteers will receive comprehensive training from the traffic police. They will also be provided with essential gear, including reflective jackets, caps, and whistles to ensure their visibility and effectiveness in directing traffic.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) TTR Narbir Rathaur  shared details about the initiative, stating, "We will be engaging more than 100 traffic volunteers from different areas over the next few months.

"They will be trained on basic traffic rules and techniques for managing diversions. All selected volunteers will undergo mandatory orientation and basic life support training."

This scheme is expected to be initially launched in each district headquarters of Himachal Pradesh, with plans for expansion into other areas in the future. Rathaur also revealed that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been drafted for the initiative and is currently awaiting final approval from the Director General of Police (DGP).

While specific objectives outlined in the SOP have not been finalized yet, this innovative Traffic Volunteer Scheme promises to not only ease traffic woes but also foster a sense of community engagement and responsibility among the citizens of Himachal Pradesh.

The scheme's success will depend on the collective efforts of volunteers and the support of law enforcement agencies, paving the way for safer and smoother roadways in the state.