Bengaluru Traffic Police has introduced an innovative road safety initiative by replacing monetary penalties with four-hour awareness sessions for delivery riders found violating traffic rules. The programme aims to promote responsible riding habits among gig workers while addressing the growing number of traffic violations involving app-based delivery personnel.
Education Over Penalties
The initiative has been rolled out across all 53 traffic police stations in Bengaluru and targets riders working for major delivery platforms, including Zomato, Swiggy, Instamart, and Zepto. Authorities say the campaign focuses on common offences such as riding against traffic, using footpaths, jumping traffic signals, and other dangerous road practices.
According to traffic police, nearly 4,000 cases were registered within the first three days of the campaign, highlighting the scale of violations across the city.
Addressing the Pressure Faced by Delivery Workers
Officials noted that traditional fines often fail to change rider behaviour because many delivery workers either struggle to pay the penalties or continue violating rules due to the pressure of completing deliveries within strict timelines.
Instead of relying solely on enforcement, the new programme encourages riders to understand road safety through interactive sessions that explain traffic laws, accident risks, and the importance of responsible driving.
Balancing Road Safety and Gig Economy Challenges
The initiative has received positive feedback from several delivery riders, who believe the educational approach is more constructive than financial penalties. At the same time, some observers have pointed out that attending a four-hour session may reduce earning opportunities for gig workers who depend on completing multiple deliveries each day.
Bengaluru Traffic Police believes the programme will improve long-term compliance with traffic regulations while helping reduce accidents involving delivery riders. The initiative also reflects a broader effort to combine enforcement with education to create safer roads for all commuters.