Beware! ‘Smart’ tech to keep eye on violators from today

Camera-integrated systems to generate challans

THE GOAN NETWORK | JUNE 01, 2023, 12:57 AM IST

PANAJI
After initial delay, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras will begin to detect traffic offences from Thursday, June 1 at 13 significant locations in Panaji, Merces junction, Porvorim and Dona Paula.

Addressing a State function held at the Secretariat on Wednesday, Transport Minister MauvinGodinho said these specialised cameras are capable of detecting violations up to 200 mtrs.

“The AI cameras installed by the PWD will be operational from June 1. The high definition camera will automatically capture clear video and images with Automatic Number Plate recognition of overspeeding vehicles in upto 200 metres during the day time and upto 100 metres at night time using Infrared technology on High Security Number Plate,” he said adding, despite the increase in fines, it has not deterred people from breaking the traffic rules’.

Ironically, several vehicles in the State have still not complied with the High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) rule.

The Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) will automatically detect traffic offences and issue e-challans via SMS to the registered mobile number of the vehicle owner involved in the violation. The Electronic Enforcement system is fitted with state-of-the-art cameras and sensors to identify any violations including overspeeding, red light jumping, lane-cutting, etc.

Godinho further informed that the police force has undergone training to use the technology while a second round of training is scheduled this month to understand the advanced features of the system. “The department is moving forward to put new signages and is also in the process of procuring 70 alcometer and breathe analyzers. I urge citizens to cooperate with us,” he added.

The decision to strengthen road safety rules come against the backdrop of rising accidents in the State, majority of which are due to negligent driving, overspeeding, non-wearing of helmets and drunken driving.

At the event, the minister handed over 10 speed portable speed radar guns to the Police Department as this equipment will help identify overspeeding vehicles.

Raising the concern over the rise of death due to road accidents, Godinho said that rash driving and overspeeding is the major cause.

Govt begins process to identify land for scrapped vehicles

PANAJI: Almost a fortnight after notifying the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Policy of Goa, 2023; the government has begun the process of identifying a land to discard the scrapped vehicles.

As per State records, around 1.92 lakh vehicles are over 15 years old which means these are fit for scrapping, in the first phase. Over the course of the next five years, additional 3.5 lakh vehicles registered in Goa will cross the age of 15 and a substantial number of these ELVs will be from the commercial category.

“We are identifying a huge area to discard the scrapped vehicles,” Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho said.