Jharsuguda: Vedanta Aluminium has partnered with the Jharsuguda Police to support the launch of “Operation Netra”, a Smart Auto Tracking System aimed at improving passenger safety, transparency and accountability in public transport across the district.

The initiative was launched in the presence of senior district officials, police officers, industry representatives and over 250 attendees, including more than 150 auto rickshaw drivers and members of the local transport ecosystem.

Among those present at the event were Himanshu Kumar Lal, Inspector General of Police (Northern Range); Gundala Reddy Raghavendra, Superintendent of Police, Jharsuguda; Kunal Motiram Chavan, Collector and District Magistrate of Jharsuguda; and C Chandru, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, Jharsuguda.

The Smart Auto Tracking System integrates QR-code based technology into registered auto rickshaws operating in the district. Under the initiative, vehicles are being equipped with QR code stickers and in-vehicle information sheets displaying details of the driver, vehicle registration, contact numbers and licence information.

Passengers can scan the QR code to access several safety features, including live tracking requests to police authorities, sharing trip details with family members, lodging complaints related to overcharging, rash driving, route deviations or misconduct, and locating nearby police stations and emergency contacts.

Speaking at the launch event, C Chandru said technology-driven initiatives are essential for building safer and smarter urban communities.

“The Smart Auto Tracking System under Operation Netra is a progressive step towards strengthening public safety and enhancing trust within the transport ecosystem. We are proud to support Jharsuguda Police in this meaningful initiative that directly benefits citizens and promotes responsible urban mobility,” he said.

Superintendent of Police Gundala Reddy Raghavendra also appreciated Vedanta’s support for the initiative and highlighted its role in strengthening commuter confidence and accountability in public transportation.

According to the company, Operation Netra forms part of Vedanta Aluminium’s broader community development efforts in the region, benefiting more than 3.9 lakh people across 79 villages in Jharsuguda district.

Vedanta Aluminium said it continues to collaborate with the district administration on initiatives related to healthcare, environmental sustainability and community infrastructure. The company recently supported the revamp of the Government Satellite Hospital at Mangal Bazaar and has undertaken plantation drives under the Government of India’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0” campaign.