ITMS Goes Live on Mumbai-Pune Expressway: Initial Hiccups in Real-Time Challan Issuance
The Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), designed to revolutionize road safety, was recently launched on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Despite going live, the system has faced initial challenges in issuing real-time challans to traffic violators. Here's an overview of the situation and its implications.
Real-Time Challans: The system is not yet issuing real-time challans due to initial operational challenges.
Evaluation Process: Currently, an external agency collects data on traffic violators, which is then evaluated by transport assistant inspectors as the agency lacks the authority to issue challans directly.
Software Glitches:
Incorrect Challans: Instances of incorrect challans have been reported, such as fines for wearing seatbelts when they were worn or for a pillion rider using a phone.
Delay in Issuance: Currently, there is a delay of more than three to four days in issuing challans, which the transport department aims to reduce to within 48 hours.
Advanced Technology: The system features AI-equipped cameras installed every 10 kilometers along the 94-km stretch, capable of identifying 11 types of traffic violations.
Coverage: Initially operational only on the ghat section, the ITMS now covers the entire expressway.
Operational Centers:
Control Center: Monitoring is carried out 24×7 at the Kusgaon, Lonavala Control Centre by 10 traffic assistant inspectors, with plans to double this number to enhance monitoring capabilities.
Daily Challans: The introduction of ITMS has increased the number of daily challans issued from 100-200 to about 4,000.
Continuous Operation: Unlike human-operated interceptor vehicles that operate for a few hours, the ITMS operates 24×7, enhancing traffic regulation and driving discipline.
Patrolling Continuity:
Visible Patrolling: Despite the ITMS implementation, highway patrolling has not been completely withdrawn to maintain order and act as a deterrent to traffic violations.
Statewide Implementation: The transport department plans to extend ITMS to other major highways in Maharashtra, with six tenders already floated, including for the old Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
Enhanced Road Safety: The successful implementation of ITMS could set a new standard for traffic management and road safety across the state.
The ITMS on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway represents a significant step towards enhancing road safety through advanced technology. While initial challenges are being addressed, the potential for improved traffic management and reduced violations is promising.
Also Read: