It’s time for fed-up Shanghai citizens to get even with those who flout the traffic laws. And to make revenge just a little bit sweeter, the city is offering reward money for verified violations.
Under new regulations that take effect this month, members of the public have a financial incentive to report violators to the police. Tipsters who report an authentic traffic violation will get 20 yuan (US$2.40) in reward money, according to the Shanghai Traffic and Patrol Police General Brigade.
People can take photos or use video cameras to record the scofflaws in action. They will receive the reward after the case is verified and transferred to the police to investigate.
Traffic violations, such as driving the wrong way, improper lane changes, failing to obey traffic signals and illegal U-turns are typical violations that threaten public safety.
“These violations must be stopped but it is really hard for traffic police to catch irresponsible drivers on the spot,” said Zhao Xihong, a general brigade spokesman.
Public involvement is meant to enhance the citizens’ sense that they play a part in maintaining safe and efficient roadways, correcting illegal driving practices and fostering a positive, law-abiding atmosphere, Zhao added.
The general brigade requires that tipsters appear in person at the general brigade acceptance center to present identification and valid evidence. The center will keep records on individuals reporting violations. Reports delivered by e-mail, post or telephone will not be accepted.
Only reports of moving violations are eligible for the reward.
Rewards will be issued on a monthly basis, but no single person may receive more than 1,000 yuan (US$120). “Our aim is to get people to pay attention to traffic safety, rather than creating new full-time jobs,” Zhao said.
Guangzhou, the capital of south China’s Guangdong Province, has offered cash rewards to tipsters. As a result, some people just carry a camera everywhere and make their living shooting traffic violators.
(China Daily August 4, 2004)
