Will AI traffic camera project end like K-Rail?

The government's vanity project to make people adhere to better traffic is turning into a boomerang of sorts. AI traffic camera project got all the news eyes from the very start. Shortly into the discussion, accusations poured in regarding the dubious contracts and sub-contracts that tricked the people and opposition alike. The government tried to finagle a way out from the quibble but is finally looking caught. The people in Kerala were eagerly binge-watching the debates related to the scam on prime-time television but are now dumbstruck seeing where the accusation is heading to. The government is keeping schtum.

One month before, the government got into some busy work installing AI cameras in a hurry. The fine amounts to be paid in case of breaching the rules were publicized which puzzled the people in Kerala. Least affected, the government moved ahead fixated on the stance of improving better traffic culture in the state. However, the response from the public was cold making the government extend the project for another one month. According to current reports, the AI camera will start working from May 201th.

Caught in the government's noble deed of traffic adherence was a contract that had Keltrons's name in it. The AI camera project was given to Keltron for Rs 232 crore. However, the opposition delved deep and found fallacies in the contract. The Keltron tried to come out unscathed but was caught in the act. Keltron's official website published details and documents of the deal but unknowingly carried errors that easily got the scrutinizing eyes of opposition leaders.

BJP later took baton of the opposition and made a bombshell of a revelation. Presadio company that earned the prized subcontract was run by a close family member of CM Pinarayi Vijayan. Surprisingly enough, the government never tried arguing, lest clear the air regarding the claim. According to reports, the government may soon freeze the contract with Keltron regarding the AI camera deal. A judicial probe is also on cards. Keltron promised the government a Rs 300 crore fine in the initial five years of the project. However, according to experts, the fine amount in five years will easily cross Rs 1000 crore and will add much to government coffers.

The government looks worried about the opposition's maneuvers of digging details of the scam. BJP is rallying affront with more shocking revelations. Time will decide about the project going back to shelves similar to the touted K-Rail.