In a major road safety and traffic management development, an artificial intelligence-enabled system will be implemented in several locations across Goa. This cutting-edge electronic traffic enforcement system aims to control traffic violations and create safer roads for all. With the integration of AI technology, Indian traffic management takes a significant leap forward, promising more efficient enforcement and greater convenience for vehicle owners.
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Strategic Locations Set for AI Traffic Management
The transport department identified 13 strategic locations across Goa for implementing the AI traffic management system. These locations include key junctions such as Divja Circle, Custom House, Panaji ferry wharf, Kala Academy, and more. By deploying the system at these locations, authorities aim to address traffic issues and ensure the smooth flow of vehicles, particularly at busy intersections prone to congestion.
Streamlined Enforcement with ITMS Cameras
Under the new system, integrated traffic management system (ITMS) cameras, installed as part of the Smart City project, will play a crucial role in capturing traffic violations. These violations will be used to issue e-challans to offenders, making the fine payment process more streamlined. Vehicle owners will receive e-challans via SMS on their registered mobile numbers, providing convenience and ensuring greater compliance.
Penalties for Traffic Violations
The transport department has released a comprehensive list of fines for various violations to encourage adherence to traffic rules. Offenses such as using mobile phones while driving, disregarding traffic signs, improper overtaking, and failure to wear seat belts or helmets will incur fines ranging from 500 to 1,000. Repeat offenders will face even higher penalties.
Tackling Overspeeding and Prioritizing Emergency Vehicles
The AI traffic management system also addresses overspeeding, a major cause of accidents. Four-wheelers exceeding speed limits will face a fine of 1,000, while other vehicle types will be penalized for 2,000. Additionally, the system emphasizes the importance of providing unobstructed passage to emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire service vehicles. Failure to yield to these vehicles will result in a hefty fine of `10,000.
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Strict Consequences for Severe Violations
Certain severe violations will not only result in fines but also lead to a minimum three-month suspension of the offender’s driving license. These violations include jumping red lights, carrying passengers in goods carriages, overloading goods carriages, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The introduction of strict consequences for such offenses highlights the commitment to promoting road safety and responsible driving.
Overcoming Glitches and Launch Date
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho acknowledged some initial glitches in the AI traffic management system at the Merces junction. Technical difficulties in monitoring the vehicular traffic flow had caused delays. However, these issues have been resolved, and the AI-enabled system will now be operational from June 1. Implementing the AI traffic management system is a joint effort by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the transport department.
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Our Say
The introduction of the AI traffic management system in Goa marks a significant milestone in Indian road safety & traffic management. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, authorities aim to enhance compliance, streamline enforcement, and create safer roads for everyone. With its focus on capturing violations, issuing e-challans, and imposing fines, the system encourages responsible driving and greater adherence to traffic regulations. As India takes steps towards smarter and more efficient traffic management, the benefits of AI integration become apparent, promising a future of safer and smoother journeys on Indian roads.
Sabreena Basheer is an architect-turned-writer who's passionate about documenting anything that interests her. She's currently exploring the world of AI and Data Science as a Content Manager at Analytics Vidhya.
