Pune Police have launched an experimental project using artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and enforce traffic discipline on the bustling Fergusson College (FC) Road. This initiative, the first of its kind in the city, aims to leverage advanced technology to address chronic issues of traffic congestion, rule violations, and road safety.
The AI-based system, developed in collaboration with a leading Indian tech startup, utilizes high-definition cameras and machine learning algorithms to monitor real-time traffic flow and automatically detect violations such as:
Signal jumping
Wrong-side driving
Illegal parking
Lane indiscipline
Helmetless riding and seatbelt violations
Once a violation is detected, the system captures photographic and video evidence, automatically generates an e-challan (electronic fine), and sends it directly to the offender’s registered mobile number or email address. The system is also integrated with the city’s vehicle database, ensuring swift identification of repeat offenders.
Fergusson College Road, popularly known as FC Road, is one of Pune’s busiest commercial and educational corridors. It witnesses heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the day, making it a hotspot for traffic violations and congestion.
By choosing FC Road for this pilot, Pune Police aim to test the system’s effectiveness in a high-density, high-challenge environment. If successful, the project will be expanded to other critical junctions and roads across the city.
Since its implementation earlier this month, the AI system on FC Road has recorded a noticeable reduction in common violations, particularly signal jumping and helmetless riding. Commuters have reported smoother traffic flow during peak hours, while local businesses have welcomed the move as a step towards safer streets.
However, some citizens have raised concerns about privacy and the accuracy of automated fines. Pune Police have assured the public that all data is handled securely and that a grievance redressal mechanism is in place for contesting wrongful challans.
Pune Police plan to monitor the pilot’s performance over the next three months, gathering feedback from commuters, local residents, and traffic experts. Based on the results, the AI system could be rolled out to other busy areas such as JM Road, Baner, and Hinjewadi.
