Now, get traffic update SMS to beat jams

Getting traffic updates through FM radio is now a thing of the past. Traffic updates are now just an SMS away. And it will be round-the-clock. Subhendu Ray reports. Smart service

Getting traffic updates through FM radio is now a thing of the past. Traffic updates are now just an SMS away. And it will be round-the-clock.

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After gaining success through Facebook and Twitter, Delhi Traffic Police have now started a unique service on traffic update through text messages. A dedicated team from the unit has been involved for this job, said Ajay Chadha, special CP (traffic).

The method is simple. One has to just send an SMS 'join dtp' to 09219592195 from one's mobile to register with the mobile helpline service.

After that, as and when there is any traffic jam due to any reason — road accident, rainfall or road construction — he will be intimated through SMS.

"This is a free service by Delhi Traffic Police. This will also alert commuters in general and motorists in particular about any traffic diversions or advisory in the city," said Chadha.

"The SMS service is more instant than updates on Facebook or Twitter. Motorists while driving generally cannot access Facebook or Twitter to get traffic update," said a senior officer.

He added that initially 40,000 people are expected to register themselves.