Updated on Monday, November 03, 2008, 00:00 IST

Kanpur, Nov 03: Don't be surprised to hear a voice reminding you to follow traffic rules if you call up your relatives in Kanpur.

In a novel move, the city traffic police plans to educate commuters in a big way by introducing a ring tone on traffic regulations during the 'Traffic Awareness' month being celebrated this month.

Ringtones like 'Follow traffic rules' or 'Use helmet and seatbelt' will greet you when you dial any mobile number in Kanpur.

"Arrangements have been made with service providers such as Vodafone, BSNL and Reliance to make the drive a success," Kanpur Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Ramlal Verma told a news agency today.

"There cannot be a better way to make people aware of traffic rules," he said.

Going by the sheer number of mobile users in the city, Verma exuded confidence that the effort will have the desired impact.

Other efforts to raise awareness among people about traffic rules include slide shows in cinemas and huge banners that have sprung up all over the city.

Schools have also been roped in the drive.

Verma, however, said the traffic department was facing manpower shortage with 250 vacancies for constables.

The department also requires 21 head constables to man traffic at 153 crossroads in the city.

Bureau Report