In Durgapur, West Bengal, a surprising new trend is emerging for motorists relying on Google Maps for navigation. Users searching for directions are being alerted with warnings about police checks at certain intersections, specifically Ramkrishna Avenue and DMC crossing, raising concerns about visibility into potential corrupt practices.
On March 21, 2025, a search for directions to Ramkrishna Avenue revealed a stark message—a notification warning, "Police check vehicles here, they take money." This unusual disclaimer has sparked conversations among local residents who are questioning the integrity of traffic enforcement in their city. Residents report that police frequently monitor the area for rule violations, including such infractions as not wearing helmets and driving under the influence.
One local resident stated, "Police keep stopping vehicles here at the post for those flouting rules like not wearing helmets, drunken driving or not having proper documents. But, this line of police stopping vehicles and taking money appearing on Maps is something new." This sentiment reflects the frustration many drivers feel amid concerns about the encouragement of bribery and corruption targeting unsuspecting motorists.
The issue is not isolated to Ramkrishna Avenue alone; every search for DMC crossing also returns the warning, "Beware, Police stop vehicles here." Dhiresh Bandopadhyay, a longtime resident of Durgapur, voiced concerns over the situation, stating, "We don't know who all are behind this, but it is a fact that the police regularly stop vehicles at DMC crossing. A group of civic volunteers are used for this and they demand money. We know several persons who have been denied any receipt of challans in exchange for money. So, that in simple terms is a bribe."
Subrata Bandopadhyay echoed Dhiresh's frustrations, stating, "Not only Ramkrishna Avenue or DMC crossing, there are other areas where a section of police personnel or civic volunteers continuously harass motorists and demand money. If anyone refuses, their vehicles are confiscated temporarily, prompting them to open their pockets. This needs to stop." These comments highlight a growing worry that the enforcement of traffic laws is not being implemented fairly and equitably.
As news of these claims spreads, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Rajkumar Malakar, confirmed the allegations during an interview with ETV Bharat, stating, "We have already contacted the cyber-crime division to know who all are behind this. Primary investigation indicates that the location map of Google is not prepared or updated here. It is an automated service. We are expecting the cyber-crime division will shed more light on this." His comments point towards an official acknowledgment of the problem and the potential need for technological improvements to prevent such warnings from appearing unchallenged.
Moreover, Malakar's remarks indicate a desire for transparency and trust. "We are also trying to reach out to people to know why exactly someone or a group is doing all this. If there are lapses on our part, we need to correct them immediately," he added. The Assistant Commissioner attempted to clarify the protocol for issuing fines, noting that many fines and fees, as well as challans, are often processed electronically. He expressed a commitment to address reports of anomalies if they exist.
The curious occurrence of warnings on Google Maps poses vital questions about public safety, traffic management, and local governance. It raises broader concerns regarding the capability of local law enforcement to maintain legitimacy in the eyes of the community. With numerous reports from residents about possible corruption and misconduct among police and civic volunteers, the need for a thorough investigation is clear.
As residents await the results of the police investigations, many hope for a transformation in the traffic management system. The warnings appearing on their navigation tools reflect a situation that not only affects motorists but also strikes at the heart of trust in public institutions. For the people of Durgapur, restoring confidence in their traffic police is paramount; many desire to see officers ensuring safe passage on the roads without the shadow of bribery lurking in the air.
This developing story serves as a reminder of the significance of community engagement and oversight in maintaining integrity within law enforcement practices. As authorities take steps to investigate the claims further, residents continue to advocate for transparency and the correct enforcement of traffic laws, free from the specter of corruption.
