Coimbatore's GD Naidu Flyover Gets AI Surveillance to Tackle Traffic Violations
The special project wing of the state highways department in Coimbatore has initiated a significant project to install advanced AI-based surveillance cameras on the GD Naidu flyover. This initiative is specifically designed to monitor and curb traffic violations on this critical infrastructure, which has been plagued by safety issues since its inauguration.
Background: The Longest Flyover in Tamil Nadu
Chief Minister M K Stalin inaugurated the GD Naidu flyover on October 9, marking it as the longest flyover in the state with a length of 10.1 kilometers, stretching from Uppilipalayam to Goldwins. Initially, the flyover experienced severe traffic congestion, but as vehicle movement decreased after a few weeks, a new problem emerged: a sharp increase in traffic violations.
Motorists began riding at high speeds and driving on the wrong side, with youths engaging in speed bike races during late-night hours. These reckless behaviors led to frequent non-fatal accidents, prompting authorities to take action to enhance safety and enforce traffic laws more effectively.
AI-Based Surveillance System: A Rs 3 Crore Investment
To address these challenges, the highways department has embarked on a project costing Rs 3 crore to install 44 AI-based surveillance cameras and 16 LED monitor screens along the flyover. Divisional engineer V Samuthirakani of the special project wing provided details on the implementation.
Key features of the system include:
- Detection of various violations such as speeding, triple riding, driving without a seat belt, and wrong-side driving.
- Display of the violator's vehicle number and the specific violation on LED screens installed at strategic locations.
- Integration with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and police departments for automated challan generation and enforcement.
Samuthirakani explained, "We have already fixed two LED screens at the airport up-ramp. With eight ramps in total, two screens will be installed at each ramp, complemented by the 44 AI cameras. These cameras will be linked to the RTO and police, ensuring that once a violation is detected, a challan is prepared and sent directly to the vehicle owner."
Implementation Timeline and Readiness
The cameras have been procured and are ready for installation, with the entire project expected to be completed by the end of February. This timely deployment aims to quickly address the ongoing safety concerns and reduce the incidence of accidents on the flyover.
By leveraging artificial intelligence, this surveillance system represents a proactive step towards smarter traffic management in Coimbatore, aligning with broader efforts to enhance urban infrastructure and public safety through technology.
