e-Traffic Mobile App aims to curb traffic violations
View(s):By Mahesh de Andrado
Under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative has introduced the e-Traffic mobile app to promote road safety and reduce traffic violations.
Here’s a quick look at what it offers:
The app isn’t yet available on Google Play or the Apple App Store, requiring users to sideload the APK from the Sri Lanka Police’s official website. Fortunately, the website mentions plans for an official Android and iOS release soon.
Once installed, the app requests access to your device’s camera and location (which are needed to capture images and videos of traffic violations as well as geolocate where said violation took place). Once access is given, (or not, depending on your preference if you wish to give it at the moment of reporting a violation), you can either sign up for the app by giving your name, mobile number, and email address along with a password to login to the app. Alternatively you can use your Google account to login as well.
Once logged in, you’re greeted with the homepage of the e-Traffic app. It’s nothing flashy, but gets the job done. Two large icons are in the centre of the app, one for the camera to capture images and one to capture video. The app uses your device’s camera API and interface as opposed to having its own camera controls. Again, no complaints as it gets the job done.
Once you have captured the relevant images or video footage, you can submit it as a traffic violation providing a description of the violation along with any comments or suggestions. You can also add location data for the images and video. This is helpful if you see a traffic violation while on the go and want to quickly submit a report but can’t go back to the place the violation was committed.
You can also save the submission and upload it later (in the event you are able to get clearer images or videos). The hamburger menu on the top left gives you access to your submissions, your profile, as well as a list of terms and conditions related to the privacy policy of the e-Traffic mobile app.
How effective is it?
While a novel initiative and innovative concept by the government and the Sri Lanka Police, aimed at revolutionizing traffic management, its implementation has room for improvement.
Potential for exploitation
Users could exploit the app by submitting false reports. Creating burner Google accounts to spam the system with irrelevant photos or videos can waste resources, as moderators must sift through fake submissions.
Login frustrations
A minor yet annoying issue is the frequent login requirement. Even a brief app switch forces users to re-authenticate via Google. Retaining the login session could greatly improve the experience.
Security concerns with sideloading
The app requires sideloading (installing the APK from outside the Google Play Store), which may deter users due to potential security risks. Malicious actors could inject malware into the APK, compromising personal data. With Android 15 tightening sideloading restrictions, users may face additional hurdles installing the app, especially those less tech-savvy.
The verdict
Despite these challenges, the e-Traffic app is a commendable step towards improving road safety and reducing traffic violations. With proper refinements like addressing spam submissions, improving login retention, and exploring Play Store distribution, it could significantly contribute to a safer, more orderly Sri Lanka.
Innovative but not flawless, the app’s success ultimately hinges on effective use and
continuous improvement.
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