VIO Launches E-Ticketing to Curb Confrontations with Motorists

The Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) is set to implement an e-ticketing system aimed at reducing conflicts with motorists and streamlining traffic enforcement. Discover how this new approach will impact road users and improve safety.

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), widely recognized as the Vehicles Inspection Office (VIO), announced that it is diligently working to launch its e-ticketing and central booking system for motorists in Abuja.

Mr. Abdulateef Bello, the DRTS Director, disclosed this information during an interview on Sunday in Abuja.

The director stated that implementing the technological system would significantly decrease, and possibly eliminate, physical interactions between DRTS operatives and motorists on roads.

He stated that, to achieve this goal, the service had collaborated with numerous providers for electronic traffic management and penalty systems.

Several of these companies were initially engaged on a Proof of Concept basis. They began by installing their devices at strategic locations in the FCT to demonstrate their ability to interpret infractions and manage penalty administration effectively.

First, regulatory approval is required. Then the process moves to Abuja Investment Company for analysis. After that, it goes to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC). Finally, they will return for formal procurement steps.

“We need to let the regulatory process take its course. However, if all goes well, some of these projects should be operational by the first quarter of next year,” he stated.

Bello stated that the electronic enforcement would actively bring about changes by addressing vehicle offenses and ensuring safety on FCT roads.

The issue of conflicts between vehicle inspection officers and the motoring public is nearing resolution, as significant efforts are being made to address this ongoing concern.

READ ALSO: Court Bars VIO and Others from Stopping, Impounding, or Confiscating Vehicles

Once you commit a traffic violation, our officers on the road will issue you a ticket. You’ll also receive alerts on your phone, provided that the vehicle is registered in FCT.

“You can continue driving to your destination, but you’ll receive an alert notifying you of the infraction you’ve just committed and informing you about the fine. You will then be advised to make a payment,” he said.

He stated that the service had challenged the court ruling that prevented DRTS operatives from seizing vehicles in violation.

“Our operational personnel are currently being trained on the e-ticketing system, while those deployed on the road are doing their best to manage traffic.”

“We continue to use the Abuja Inspector App, which helps our personnel ensure that motorists are in compliance,” Bello stated.

Bello stressed that, under the leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, the service will not permit any lapses in enforcing vehicle regulations within the FCT.

He urged motorists to comply with traffic regulations, ensure their vehicles are registered and papers renewed on time, and keep driver’s licenses up-to-date in order to remain within the boundaries of the law.

This is because the DRTS is making significant efforts to transform its operations in order to provide services that are efficient and worthy of the FCT’s status.

“We are diligently working towards upgrading to a paperless motor vehicle administration, and this initiative will be included in next year’s budget,” he stated.