Police to work with map apps nationwide to update traffic info

BEIJING - Chinese police will extend their cooperation with map apps operators nationwide, allowing drivers to be updated with the latest traffic information, said the Ministry of Public Security Tuesday.

A number of local traffic police departments have already worked with map apps to alert drivers of roads with high incidences of accidents, which received positive feedback, said Liu Yupeng, a senior ministry official, at a press conference.

From Sept. 20, the ministry will encourage traffic police nationwide to provide and upgrade such services, Liu said, adding that map apps will also be able to update drivers with emergency information about traffic jams, road construction and traffic control measures.

The ministry also hopes map apps will highlight the locations of traffic police stations and vehicle administration offices as well as locations where drivers can process minor traffic accidents.

Local traffic police departments will initiate the service as soon as they are ready, with complete implementation expected by the end of this year, Liu said.