Vizag police turn to AI for smarter, safer roads

The port city is set to embrace cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in its traffic management system to reduce violations and prevent accidents. This ambitious move by the city police aims to enhance road safety and create a culture of responsible driving.
“We aim to make Vizag a no-overspeeding city. Soon, speed limits will be advertised on the roads. Those who ignore the speed limits will be caught by AI-integrated CCTV cameras placed all over the city,” stated Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi in a conversation with the Pioneer.
The initiative will see the installation of advanced Automatic Number Plate Recognition Systems (ANPRS) integrated with AI-powered cameras across the city. These systems will identify vehicles violating speed limits and automatically issue e-challans to offenders. By making enforcement automated and precise, the police hope to significantly lower fatal road accidents in the city.
Beyond overspeeding, the AI system will address various infractions, including overloading, illegal parking, and helmet-less driving. Penalties for these violations may include fines and temporary suspension of driving licenses, depending on the severity of the offence.
In line with the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on November 17, Commissioner Bagchi announced the creation of a Road Traffic Accident Victim Assistance Cell. This unit will help families of accident victims secure compensation swiftly, providing crucial support during challenging times.
The commissioner highlighted the positive impact of stricter enforcement since September, stating, “The number of fatal accidents has dropped from 32 to 16, and fatalities have reduced from 32 to 19.”  
These numbers reflect the potential of enhanced traffic regulation to save lives.
The AI initiative aims to streamline policing efforts, making traffic management more efficient while setting an example for smart city development. The Visakhapatnam police hope this project will not only deter violations but also transform Vizag into a safer and more disciplined city for commuters. This leap into AI-driven traffic solutions positions Visakhapatnam as a pioneer in integrating technology for urban safety and sustainability.