PALAKKAD: With the aim of making motor vehicle check posts corruption-free, the state government has approved a 'Virtual Check Post' system to be implemented at state borders. The project will begin at Walayar, where the highest volume of goods movement occurs. A final decision will be taken once financial approval is granted.

Under this system, when a vehicle passes through, scanners and AI-powered cameras will automatically collect information about the goods being transported — without requiring the vehicle to stop. GST bills and related documents will also be subject to automatic verification.

Survey work has begun to identify locations for the installation of scanners and AI cameras. An e-weighbridge with automatic sensors will also be set up. Each check post will have around ten cameras and scanners.

Although the district has eight check posts, the system will be first implemented on Walayar In and Walayar Out roads. Later, cameras will be installed at Velanthavalam, Naduppuni, Olavakkode, Gopalapuram, Meenakshipuram, Govindapuram, and other border routes and bypasses.

These virtual check posts will be integrated with both the GST Department's camera system and the Motor Vehicles Department's ‘mParivahan’ online platform. A 24/7 control room will be set up at the Motor Vehicles Department’s Enforcement Office. As permit-related procedures are already online, vehicles will be able to cross the border without stopping.

Irregularities will be detected instantly

• Real-time detection: Any violations committed while goods vehicles cross the border will be detected immediately. The vehicle owner will receive a message instantly. Notices will be sent online. If the fine is not paid within the stipulated time, action will be taken when the vehicle is next spotted on the road.
• Alerts to vehicle owners: Details regarding tax defaults, insurance status, pollution certificates, overloading, or illegal vehicle modifications will be sent to the vehicle owner's mobile phone at the time of border crossing. Fines can be paid online.
• Centralized monitoring: All data captured by AI cameras and scanners will be directly sent to the RTO office. A system will be set up at the district level for data analysis, complaint handling, and enforcement. Vehicles blacklisted for non-payment of fines can be tracked and fined online.