AI ​​camera sees everything but number of penalty challans reduced; only 10 to 25 fines imposed for 100 offences

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The number of penalties issued by AI cameras installed on roads to detect traffic violations with the help of artificial intelligence has reduced by a quarter.

Cameras detect violations. However, only 10 to 25 fines are imposed when 100 offences are found. The fine should be recorded and sent to the RC owner by the Keltron staff. Most of the employees hired on a contract basis to implement the project have been withdrawn by Keltron.

The project, which has been accused of corruption including in the contract and sub-contract, was implemented on June 5. The Department of Motor Vehicles delayed the implementation of the comprehensive agreement with Keltron after the opposition raised allegations. The long-running corruption case against the Chief Minister's relative is now under consideration by the High Court.

Although the High Court allowed Keltron to be paid the first instalment of Rs 11.79 crore on November 18, the amount was delayed. The court also allowed the second installment to be paid but it has not been handed over. Although the court was approached demanding the next instalment, the petitioners, VD Satheesan and Ramesh Chennithala, had opposed it.

726 cameras installed

726 cameras were operational across the state on June 5. Revenue from fines will be reduced if the camera does not work. The draft contract stipulates that Rs.1,000 per day will be deducted from the amount due to Keltron if the camera is not repaired within a certain number of days. This is not approved by Keltron. According to MVD officials, the already damaged cameras have not been repaired.

Government has no loss

• Government announced cost of the project: Rs 232 crore.
• Quarterly payment to Keltron: 11.79 crores
• The government has no investment in the project. Payment is to be made from the fine amount.
• Keltron Employees in 14 Control Rooms: 145
• 39 lakh challans have been generated. 17.5 lakhs sent by post.
• Sending of challan was reduced due to lack of money.
• 33,000 challans used to be sent earlier. Less than 10,000 now.