Mumbai: In a bid to decrease the number of fatalities and prevent accidents, the state of Maharashtra has announced its plan to introduce a network of artificial intelligence (AI) cameras on all highways. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed this initiative while launching 187 new RTO interceptor vehicles at an event in Nariman Point. The use of AI cameras has already shown promising results, with a decline in road deaths from 15,224 in 2022 to 15,009 in 2023.
The first interceptor vehicle, operated by Monica Salunkhe, a female RTO official, was ceremonially flagged off during the event. These interceptor vehicles are equipped with advanced equipment and gadgets that will aid in capturing traffic violators. The state has approved the installation of AI cameras on nine major highways, designed to detect common offenses such as speeding, lane cutting, wrong-side driving, and even the use of mobile phones while driving. Powered by artificial intelligence, these cameras are equipped with sensors and software that analyze live footage, identify number plates, and recognize traffic anomalies in real-time.
Chief Minister Shinde has emphasized the importance of frequent checking at checkpoints and discouraging continuous driving without adequate rest, as both contribute to increased crash risks. He also urged enforcement squads to exercise extra vigilance during late-night hours when speeding cases are rampant. Additionally, Shinde called upon the RTO to focus on educational and enforcement measures to address accident-prone areas, known as black spots, and utilize speed guns, rumblers, and cameras effectively in the battle against speeding. He assured the provision of government support and funding to improve overall road safety.
The cost of deploying the 187 newly launched interceptors exceeds Rs 35 crore. The state transport department has set an ambitious target of reducing fatalities by 50% by 2030, primarily concentrating on the Pune Expressway and Samruddhi Mahamarg for the deployment of these interceptors. These vehicles are equipped with a high-quality speed-gun camera that allows officials to track the speed of multiple vehicles simultaneously and capture real-time video evidence.
Notable personalities attending the event included Mumbai guardian minister Deepak Kesarkar, state transport commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, deputy transport commissioner (road safety) Bharat Kalaskar, along with several other officials.
FAQs
- What are AI cameras?
AI cameras are advanced surveillance cameras equipped with artificial intelligence technology. They can analyze live footage, identify objects, and detect various types of offenses in real-time. - What offenses can AI cameras detect?
AI cameras can identify and record violations such as speeding, lane cutting, wrong-side driving, and the use of mobile phones while driving. - How do AI cameras contribute to road safety?
By monitoring and detecting traffic violations in real-time, AI cameras serve as a deterrent to reckless driving and contribute to the overall safety of the roads. - How will the interceptor vehicles aid in road safety?
Interceptor vehicles, equipped with modern gadgets and equipment, enable authorities to capture traffic violators more effectively. Their deployment helps in enforcing traffic regulations and reducing accidents. - What measures are being taken to reduce fatalities in Maharashtra?
The state has set a target of reducing road fatalities by 50% by 2030. This goal will be achieved through the implementation of AI cameras, interceptor vehicles, and adopting educational and enforcement measures in accident-prone areas.
- What are AI cameras?
AI cameras are advanced surveillance cameras equipped with artificial intelligence technology. They can analyze live footage, identify objects, and detect various types of offenses in real-time. - What offenses can AI cameras detect?
AI cameras can identify and record violations such as speeding, lane cutting, wrong-side driving, and the use of mobile phones while driving. - How do AI cameras contribute to road safety?
By monitoring and detecting traffic violations in real-time, AI cameras serve as a deterrent to reckless driving and contribute to the overall safety of the roads. - How will the interceptor vehicles aid in road safety?
Interceptor vehicles, equipped with modern gadgets and equipment, enable authorities to capture traffic violators more effectively. Their deployment helps in enforcing traffic regulations and reducing accidents. - What measures are being taken to reduce fatalities in Maharashtra?
The state has set a target of reducing road fatalities by 50% by 2030. This goal will be achieved through the implementation of AI cameras, interceptor vehicles, and adopting educational and enforcement measures in accident-prone areas.