Thiruvananthapuram, 30 June (H.S.):

Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered traffic surveillance cameras have helped reduce road accident fatalities in Kerala even though the overall number of accidents has increased, Transport Minister C.P. John told the State Assembly on Tuesday. Presenting details of the Safe Kerala project, the minister said the AI camera network has improved road discipline and significantly reduced traffic violations since its launch in 2023.

According to figures tabled in the Assembly, road accidents rose from 48,068 in 2023 to 49,889 in 2025. However, road fatalities declined from 4,084 to 3,733 during the same period despite a six per cent increase in the number of vehicles on Kerala's roads. The minister said improved compliance with traffic rules had contributed to the reduction in deaths.

There has been a noticeable increase in helmet use among two-wheeler riders and seat belt usage by vehicle occupants. The use of mobile phones while driving, reckless driving and signal jumping at junctions fitted with AI cameras have also come down. John said the e-challan system has reduced unnecessary arguments between motorists and enforcement officials, while constant surveillance has encouraged more responsible driving behaviour.

The AI camera project had become a major political issue, with the then Opposition leaders V.D. Satheesan and Ramesh Chennithala alleging irregularities in its implementation. However, the Kerala High Court dismissed their petition in August 2025, holding that it lacked sufficient merit for judicial intervention.

A total of 722 AI cameras have been installed across the state. In a recent order, the High Court directed the state government to release pending payments due to SRIT through KELTRON. SRIT told the court it had spent ₹151 crore on the project, including a ₹6 crore deposit, and continues to incur maintenance expenses of around ₹40 lakh every month.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman