Mahim Civic Activist Irfan Machiwala Suggest BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide and Joint CP Traffic Satyanarayana Chowdary to Install AI-Based Smart Traffic Signals in Mahim West

Mahim Civic Activist Irfan Machiwala Suggest BMC Commissioner Ashwini Bhide and Joint CP Traffic Satyanarayana Chowdary to Install AI-Based Smart Traffic Signals in Mahim West

Mumbai: Mahim civic activist Irfan Machiwala has appealed to Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide and Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Satyanarayana Chowdary to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based smart traffic signals across Mahim West to improve traffic management, reduce congestion and enhance road safety.

Machiwala said that traditional traffic signals operate on fixed timings, irrespective of the actual number of vehicles on the road. AI-powered traffic signals can use cameras, sensors and intelligent software to monitor real-time traffic conditions and automatically adjust signal timings.

He urged the BMC and Mumbai Traffic Police to jointly implement this modern technology at important traffic junctions in Mahim West, particularly during morning and evening peak hours.

Benefits of AI-Based Smart Traffic Signals

1. Real-Time Traffic Monitoring: AI cameras can detect the number of vehicles on roads and monitor traffic movement continuously.

2. Automatic Signal Timing: Signals can automatically adjust green-light timings depending on traffic volume instead of following fixed schedules.

3. Reduction in Traffic Congestion: Longer green signals can be provided to roads carrying more vehicles, helping reduce unnecessary traffic queues.

4. Better Pedestrian Safety: Smart systems can help provide safer crossing opportunities for pedestrians, senior citizens, schoolchildren and persons with disabilities.

5. Priority for Emergency Vehicles: Advanced systems can be designed to give priority to ambulances, fire engines and other emergency vehicles.

6. Detection of Traffic Violations: AI-enabled cameras can help identify red-light jumping, stop-line violations and other traffic offences, subject to applicable rules.

7. Improved Traffic Management Near Schools: Smart signals can help manage vehicle movement near schools during opening and closing hours.

8. Reduced Fuel Consumption and Pollution: Less waiting time and smoother traffic movement can help reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and vehicle emissions.

9. Data-Based Traffic Planning: Authorities can analyse traffic patterns and identify junctions requiring road improvements or additional traffic-management measures.

10. Centralised Monitoring: Traffic authorities can monitor multiple junctions through an integrated control room and respond more quickly to traffic problems.

Appeal for a Pilot Project in Mahim West

Irfan Machiwala has requested the BMC Commissioner and Joint CP Traffic to consider launching a pilot project for AI-based smart traffic signals at selected busy junctions in Mahim West.

He further suggested that the BMC Traffic Department and Mumbai Traffic Police conduct a joint survey to identify suitable locations and prepare a phased implementation plan.

Machiwala said that modern technology should be used to make Mumbai's roads safer, smarter and more pedestrian-friendly. AI-based traffic management can become an important step towards building a Smart Mumbai.