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The Directorate of Road Traffic Services announced its proactive measures in developing an e-ticketing and central booking system for motorists in the Federal Capital Territory, stating that it is working tirelessly to ensure a smooth implementation of this innovative service.
The announcement was made by Mr. Abdulateef Bello, Director of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services, in a Sunday interview with the News Agency of Nigeria conducted in Abuja.
In his remarks, the director noted that the adoption of this technological system is poised to significantly lower, and potentially eliminate, the necessity for physical interactions between DRTS operatives and motorists, thereby modernizing traffic enforcement.
He elaborated that to realize this goal, the service had collaborated with various service providers who specialize in electronic traffic management and penalty systems, ensuring a robust framework for the new initiative.
“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.
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“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.
