The Kochi City police have started deploying personnel in plainclothes onboard private buses in an effort to detect alleged frequent traffic rule violations by bus crew.

Alexander Thomas, Chairperson of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), had made a proposal to deploy ‘shadow’ cops to rein in rash driving and other violations by private buses. The traffic wing of the city police had, however, initiated the step over a month ago as part of strengthening measures to bring order in the chaotic and highly competing transport sector.

“We have already been deploying police personnel in plainclothes in different parts of the city and even onboard buses. The undercover cops who detect a violation immediately alert our team deployed on the route who in turn take further legal actions. The undercover operations have led to the detection of a number of violations including over-speeding, wrong overtaking, and blaring horns in no-horn zones,” Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic West) Mohammed Nizar said. He added that the deployment of shadow cops also helped in reporting incidents of street fights among bus employees following disputes over route and timing.

He said a report on the ongoing action would be submitted to the SHRC in response to the panel’s instruction. The rights panel issued the order in a case it had registered suo motu based on news reports of frequent rule violations by traffic buses.

The officer also highlighted the initiative called Traffic Eye, which allows people to report traffic rule violations on WhatsApp number 6238100100. “We have been receiving an average of 30 complaints on the number a day. A meeting of private bus operators is called every month to discuss the complaints and take necessary actions,” he said.

Published – January 21, 2026 12:48 am IST