VASCO
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho on Friday said that the State government's newly introduced AI-enabled traffic cameras are aimed at promoting road discipline and ensuring public safety rather than merely collecting fines.
Godinho was speaking to reporters after attending a Mhaje Ghar awareness camp organised by the Chicalim Panchayat in the presence of Chicalim Sarpanch Kamla Prasad Yadav, Deputy Collector Pratap Rao Gaonkar, representatives of the Communidade and other government officials.
Godinho expressed concern over the large number of motorists driving without valid vehicle insurance. He warned that such negligence could prove disastrous if an accident occurs, leaving victims without adequate financial protection.
"We have rolled out AI cameras not to fine people but to bring discipline on our roads. It is shocking that many people are driving vehicles without valid insurance. This can become a major disaster in the event of an accident," the Minister said.
To encourage voluntary compliance, Godinho announced that the government will provide a one-month grace period for motorists to renew or obtain valid insurance.
During this period, no fines will be imposed solely for lack of insurance. However, he clarified that AI cameras will continue to detect and penalise other traffic violations, including overspeeding, jumping traffic signals, riding without helmets, and other offences under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The Minister appealed to citizens to use the grace period responsibly and ensure that all vehicle documents are in order, stressing that road safety is a shared responsibility.
