Ahmedabad:The city traffic police have a new ally in the drive to curb violations and prevent road accidents. It's artificial intelligence. Leveraging its versatility, the department has deployed 60 AI-enabled cameras and dashcams under the Smart City initiative. Of the 60 AI-enabled dashcams procured for the initiative, around 32 will be installed on Interceptor vehicles while 28 will be given to constables. These cameras will help in taking strict action against traffic violators, said officials. The cameras were first experimented with in the jurisdiction of SG-1, SG-2 traffic police stations, and in Interceptor vehicles. During the test drive itself, the cameras assisted police in taking action in 794 cases of helmet violations, fine 21 reckless drivers, issue fines in 14 cases of three riders on a two-wheeler and in issuing fines to four drivers for not wearing seat belts.
Officials said that in the future, other violations like parking in a ‘no parking' zone will also be added.
Officials said that city police frequently organise traffic awareness programmes. However, despite these efforts, many are seen violating traffic rules by riding without helmets, carrying two persons as pillion passengers or driving on the wrong side. Dashcams will help detect these violations automatically with recorded evidence, which will make enforcement stricter, efficient and accurate. The officials said that the cams will help in real-time traffic monitoring, allowing officers to oversee the actual situation and document violations, thus protecting officers from false accusations.
Meanwhile, traffic police have also made it clear that all rickshaws in the city must have an authorised meter. Any rickshaw found without a meter will be penalised. Over 60% of the rickshaws in the city operate for shared rides and do not have meters, officials said.