Intelligent traffic system issues 3k challans in 1st week of going live

Thane: The city traffic police have launched the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) to curb violations and streamline traffic monitoring.The system, which went live on Sep 1, already generated over 3,000 e-challans in its first week of operation, said Pankaj Shirsat, DCP Traffic.The AI-driven ITMS works round-the-clock with high-definition cameras that automatically detect violations such as signal jumping, riding without helmets, triple-seat riding, lane cutting, and other offences. Each violation is captured as an image and transmitted to the central control room, where it is processed and linked to the vehicle owner through the registration database before challans are issued, he said.In the first phase, 12 advanced cameras have been installed at crucial traffic junctions, including Cadbury Junction, Teen Hath Naka, Majiwada, Kapurbawdi, Anand Nagar, Ovala, Anjur Phata, Kalyan Naka, and Dighe Chowk. Officials confirmed that the system will be scaled up with 350 cameras across the city in the coming months.Shirsat said the system will help reduce conflict between motorists and traffic police, as the camera-captured violations serve as evidence on record. This ensures more transparency in enforcement and minimises chances of disputes during on-ground checks.Apart from enforcement, ITMS will also assist the department with real-time monitoring, congestion mapping, and long-term traffic planning.A senior traffic official said, "The ITMS initiative will bring transparency in enforcement and help create safer roads for citizens. With technology, there is no scope for arguments on the road—violations are recorded and documented."Police believe the move will improve road safety in Thane, where chronic violations have been a major cause of accidents and congestion.