Bengaluru prepares to enforce speed limits on 25 major roads

In an effort to curb rising accident rates, city authorities are preparing to impose speed limits on 25 major roads, including Silk Board Junction and the Outer Ring Road. This decision follows the successful implementation of an 80 km/h speed limit on Airport Road, a notorious accident-prone stretch.

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The Airport Road speed limit, introduced in May 2023, was accompanied by the installation of artificial intelligence (AI) cameras at eight strategic points. These cameras automatically detect vehicles exceeding the speed limit, capture their images, and transmit the data to the traffic management center. Offenders are fined based on the captured evidence. Additionally, speed laser guns are being used to catch rule-breakers.

Authorities credit the initiative for a significant drop in accidents on Airport Road. In 2023, the road accounted for 9.5% of all city accidents, with 322 fatal and non-fatal cases, many attributed to overspeeding. Following the speed limit enforcement, the number of accidents has notably decreased.

Inspired by this success, officials are extending the measure to other high-risk roads in the city. The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance road safety and reduce fatalities.

The new speed limits are expected to be enforced soon, with AI surveillance systems playing a pivotal role in ensuring compliance and promoting safer driving habits citywide.