Pune Entrepreneur Launches VahanScore to Tackle Traffic Violations and Improve Road Safety
Pune, a city known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets, has long grappled with the menace of reckless driving. From riders without helmets to vehicles encroaching on footpaths, traffic violations have become a daily nuisance. In a bid to address this issue, local entrepreneur Ravi Kumar has launched VahanScore, a citizen-driven platform that empowers people to report traffic violations and hold offenders accountable.
The idea for VahanScore was born out of Kumar’s personal experiences as a cyclist navigating Pune’s chaotic roads. His frustration reached a tipping point after a tragic incident in December 2024, when a dumper crushed a family of nine sleeping by the roadside. This heartbreaking event spurred him to take action, leading to the creation of VahanScore, a platform designed to improve road safety through public participation.
How VahanScore Works
The platform, accessible at www.vahanscore.com, allows citizens to upload photos or videos of traffic violations. Users can provide details such as the location, time, and nature of the offence, which are then categorized and reviewed by VahanScore’s internal team. Once validated, the platform generates a post on X (formerly Twitter), tagging the Pune City Traffic Police. Authorities use this information to issue e-challans to offenders.
Since its launch, VahanScore has gained significant traction. With over 300 active volunteers and more than 100 violations reported daily, the platform is making a tangible impact. Kumar revealed that 65% of complaints have resulted in e-challans within seven days, showcasing the effectiveness of this collaborative approach.
Community Involvement and Future Goals
The initiative has also attracted the attention of local educational institutions. A college in Pune has partnered with VahanScore, with students assisting in verifying reports and raising awareness about road safety. Kumar believes that this kind of public engagement is crucial for long-term change.
“VahanScore replaces helplessness with agency,” Kumar said. “It allows disciplined citizens to take action and hold others accountable.” While he acknowledges that systemic change takes time, he remains optimistic. “Discipline starts with the inspired but sustains when the indifferent adapt,” he added.
Through its innovative approach, VahanScore is not just addressing traffic violations but also fostering a sense of responsibility among Pune’s citizens. By bridging the gap between the public and the police, the platform is paving the way for safer roads, one report at a time.
