AI Traffic System to Modernise Mumbai-Pune Expressway

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) intends to transform traffic management on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway by implementing the state’s first Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS).

This advanced system aims to significantly improve road safety and efficiency by deploying artificial intelligence-enabled cameras and electronic challan systems. The ITMS, scheduled to be operational by the first week of June, will address the substantial traffic load on the expressway, which sees an average of 40,000 vehicles on weekdays and 60,000 on weekends. Senior officials from the MSRDC and highway police have confirmed the extensive preparations underway for the launch of this state-of-the-art traffic system. In the initial phase, 39 gantries have been installed over a 95-kilometre stretch of the expressway. These gantries are equipped with 218 AI-powered CCTV cameras capable of detecting 17 different types of traffic violations. The integration of automatic number plate recognition technology will facilitate the issuance of e-challans, streamlining the process of penalising traffic offenders.

To further bolster road safety, weigh-in motion machines will be installed at all entry points for goods carriers. Additionally, weather monitoring systems will be strategically placed at 11 locations along the expressway. Emergency response vehicles, including 36 tow vans, cranes, and ambulances, will be outfitted with vehicle tracking systems to ensure prompt and efficient response to incidents. Variable messaging sign boards at 23 locations will provide motorists with crucial information, such as real-time traffic updates, road closures, and weather conditions, enhancing the overall driving experience. The ITMS will also facilitate the swift removal of broken-down vehicles, ensuring smoother traffic flow.

E-challans issued through the ITMS will be rigorously enforced, with traffic police denying ‘no dues certificates’ to vehicle owners with outstanding fines. These certificates are mandatory for the renewal of heavy vehicle registrations, ensuring compliance with traffic regulations. Following the successful implementation of the ITMS on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the MSRDC plans to extend this cutting-edge technology to the Samruddhi Mahamarg, positioning it as the second highway in Maharashtra to benefit from such advancements. Tanaji Chikle, superintendent of Highway Traffic Police (Panvel), said that the cutting-edge technology would improve road management and motorists’ safety in a major way.

“At present, though speed-monitoring CCTVs are installed at select junctions and crossovers on the expressway, motorists often slow down only when they approach these cameras or spot traffic police personnel,” said Chikle. Motorists use several mobile apps that alert them about the presence of speed cameras or even traffic police personnel in advance, making it easy for them to slow down at the monitoring point, he noted. This initiative underscores Maharashtra’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance road safety and traffic management. The deployment of the ITMS represents a significant step forward in creating a more efficient and safer transportation infrastructure in the state.