Delhi Govt Introduces Smart Payment System for Vehicle Fines via WhatsApp

The Delhi government is set to transform how vehicle owners pay fines for traffic violations by launching a new smart payment system through WhatsApp. This initiative aims to streamline the payment process, making it as easy as online shopping.

A recent tender has been issued for developing a solution that integrates WhatsApp Business with an Application Programming Interface (API). This will automate the delivery of traffic violation details and fines directly to the mobile phones of those affected.

Under this innovative system, an automated WhatsApp message will be sent to violators, detailing their traffic violation and the corresponding fine. An official explained that by clicking on the payment option in the WhatsApp message, users will be redirected to a payment gateway. This gateway will offer multiple payment options, including BHIM UPI, enabling users to pay one or more fines quickly.

The initiative aims to simplify the payment process by integrating popular UPI apps like Google Pay and BHIM, ensuring swift and convenient transactions. Once a payment is made, users will receive push notifications every time a new challan is generated, keeping them informed of any outstanding dues.

Initially, the system will focus on transport-related challans and address the current issues with notifications. An official noted that many vehicle owners do not receive SMS notifications for weeks. With this new system in place, the government aims to resolve this problem.

Delhi has approximately 8.2 million active vehicles, with an average of 1,000 to 1,500 e-challans issued daily. The introduction of this AI-based traffic violation booking system is expected to enhance the collection of fines.

The use of WhatsApp, a widely used messaging platform, is intended to improve communication with users. An official mentioned that because WhatsApp is the most popular messaging channel today, the Vehicle Challan Enforcement Department is looking to leverage it as a convenient communication method.

To ensure that all users are included, the system will also use SMS and registered email notifications for those who do not use WhatsApp. Bidders interested in providing this service must submit their queries by October 30, with a pre-bid meeting scheduled for November 1.

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