Kerala Traffic Fine

• Blockchain Council
• May 23, 2024

Kerala, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene backwaters, is set to embark on a groundbreaking initiative to enhance road safety and curb traffic violations. Starting Monday, the state will deploy an innovative artificial intelligence-powered (AI) camera-based traffic violation detection system, revolutionizing the way fines are enforced. With round-the-clock surveillance and an automated offense detection system, this state-of-the-art technology will capture law-breaking motorists in the act and issue fines accordingly. Let’s delve deeper into this remarkable endeavor and understand how it will reshape road safety measures in Kerala.

The implementation of AI-enabled cameras marks a significant step forward in Kerala’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its citizens on the roads. By leveraging the power of artificial intelligence, these cameras will constantly monitor both urban and rural roads, leaving no room for traffic violators to escape scrutiny. The captured images of violations will be swiftly relayed to control rooms located across the 14 districts of the state, where they will be analyzed and processed to issue legal notices to the offenders based on the nature of their infractions.

Transport Minister Antony Raju, in a press conference, revealed that the control rooms are equipped to issue up to 25,000 notices per day. During the initial phase, fines will be imposed for offenses such as riding without a helmet, driving without seatbelts, using mobile phones while driving, jumping red signals, triple riding on motorcycles, overspeeding, and illegal and dangerous parking. It is important to note that children up to the age of 12 will be permitted to be the second pillion rider on motorcycles—a commendable exception that prioritizes the safety and convenience of families.

To facilitate the smooth implementation of this initiative, Kerala has requested an amendment to the Central Motor Vehicle Act. The state has sought permission for children to travel on motorcycles, and until a decision is reached, children under 12 years old will be exempt from penalties. This proactive step by the government highlights its commitment to continuously enhance road safety measures.

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It is crucial to dispel any notions of favoritism or special treatment. The system will operate without any bias or exemptions, and even VIPs will be held accountable for traffic violations. Minister Antony Raju emphasized that only emergency vehicles falling under the prescribed categories will be exempted. The AI cameras are equipped with automatic number plate recognition, ensuring that violators are identified regardless of their status or influence.

In anticipation of the project’s launch, the state has conducted a month-long trial period to fine-tune the system. During this period, an astounding 2.4 lakh traffic violations were detected on a single day. The figure represents a significant decrease compared to the 4.5 lakh violations recorded a month ago, indicating the trial’s positive impact on road behavior. Out of the total 726 cameras deployed under the Safe Kerala project, 692 are currently operational. Efforts are underway to rectify the issues faced by the remaining 34 cameras, including those affected by road works and accidents. The state is committed to ensuring that the system functions optimally and efficiently to fulfill its objective of ensuring road safety.

The upcoming launch of the AI camera-based traffic violation detection system has not been without its fair share of controversies. The Congress party has organized protests, alleging corruption within the project. However, the government remains undeterred and steadfast in its commitment to promoting road safety. Congress workers plan to stage dharnas in front of the installed cameras across the state, expressing their dissent. Yet, the government’s resolute focus on the greater good and its commitment to reducing accidents and fatalities should not be overshadowed by these protests.

In terms of implementation, the fines for violations will be enforceable starting at 8 am on Monday. The cameras will operate 24 hours a day, diligently monitoring and capturing violations. It is important for motorists to be aware of the fines associated with specific offenses. Violations such as not wearing a helmet or seatbelt, using a mobile phone while driving, crossing red signals, traveling with more than two people on a two-wheeler, overspeeding, and dangerous parking will attract fines ranging from ₹250 to ₹2000.

To address concerns and provide recourse for those who feel unjustly penalized, an appeal mechanism has been put in place. Within 14 days of receiving a challan, individuals can file an appeal with the District Enforcement Officer. The appeal should be made to the local enforcement RTO responsible for the violation. Currently, appeals must be submitted in writing, but an online facility will be introduced within two months to streamline the process and make it more accessible.

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As part of transparency and accountability, the Motor Vehicle Department will publish a daily report of violations detected by the AI cameras on its website. This measure ensures that the public is informed about the system’s efficiency and the overall impact on road safety.

With over 1.5 crore registered vehicles in the state, it is essential to reach out to vehicle owners effectively. However, more than 70 lakh vehicles lack updated contact details in the Motor Vehicle Department’s portal. As a result, violation reports will be sent via post rather than SMS for now. The government encourages vehicle owners to ensure their contact information is up to date to receive timely notifications.

To achieve optimal coverage and monitoring, a total of 726 cameras have been strategically deployed across Kerala. The distribution is as follows: Thiruvananthapuram—93 cameras, Kollam—58 cameras, Pathanamthitta—44 cameras, Alappuzha—41 cameras, Kottayam—44 cameras, Idukki—38 cameras, Ernakulam—64 cameras, Thrissur—57 cameras, Palakkad—47 cameras, Malappuram—49 cameras, Kozhikode—63 cameras, Wayanad—27 cameras, Kannur—50 cameras, Kasargod—47 cameras. Additionally, there are four mobile units and 675 built-in intelligence cameras (AI) for unauthorized parking detection (PVDS), red light violation detection (RLVDS), and overspeed detection (Fixed-SVDS).

As Kerala pioneers the use of AI camera-based traffic violation detection, the state sets an inspiring example for others to follow. By harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence, the government aims to revolutionize road safety measures, reduce traffic violations, and create a safer environment for all road users. This transformative step not only showcases Kerala’s commitment to its citizens’ well-being but also highlights the power of technology in fostering a responsible and law-abiding society. As we embark on this new chapter, let us embrace these advancements and work together towards a safer and more harmonious future on the roads of Kerala.

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