Apart from the existing cameras, 726 artificial intelligence cameras are opening their eyes from Thursday onwards. Although it was heard that the arrival of artificial intelligence would change people's lives, no one expected that it would appear here so quickly in the form of fines. AI cameras will clearly capture traffic violations. The Motor Vehicle Department estimates that at least 25 crores will reach the exchequer every day in the form of fines with the help of AI cameras.

AI cameras have also been installed in states like Karnataka. However, long awareness campaigns were held for months in such states before slapping fines on the public. Yet, no such awareness programs were carried out in Kerala, apart from media news. A notice regarding the fine will be sent to the address provided at the time of vehicle purchase. These notices might not be delivered in time to people who have sold their homes, moved out of their rental homes, left the district, etc. A special penalty will also be there for late payment of the fine. Hence, the message regarding traffic violations should be first sent to the registered phone number of the vehicle owner.

The fine for not wearing a helmet is Rs 500. The practice of slapping multiple fines on the same day on a person who passes through various points where cameras are installed without a helmet should also be avoided. If that happens, it is certain that the vehicle owners have to pay large sums as fines. The government should issue clear instructions on these matters to the officials in the control room who are sending the notices. The main focus should be on avoiding traffic violations and not on just slapping fines. If this is seen as a good source of income, the authorities may double or even triple the fine amounts in the future. If that happens, then some groups may emerge in the state to lend money at interest to pay the fine.

Vehicle owners should also be careful not to violate traffic rules. Often the owner may not be the one driving the vehicle. However, the vehicle owner will be the one who has to bear the punishment.

It is also pointed out that there is confusion over the speed limit. Although the Union Ministry of Transport issued a notification in 2018 increasing the speed limit, AI cameras are imposing fines as per a notification issued by the state government in 2014. It can also lead to legal issues. The state should issue a new notification either to override the central notification or increase the speed limit. Vehicle owners reasonably expect the responsibility of clarifying all these matters from the government.