Bengaluru uses AI billboard to alert drivers instantly about fines: Are smart billboards the future of road safety?

Trinity Circle now hosts an AI-powered billboard that warns drivers of pending traffic challans and expired PUC certificates within seconds, combining technology with civic enforcement.

Bengaluru is taking road safety to the next level with the installation of an AI-powered billboard at Trinity Circle, one of the city’s busiest traffic hubs. The system captures vehicle registration numbers from up to 100 meters using AI-linked cameras and instantly fetches information from the VAHAN database. Within ten seconds, drivers are informed about pending traffic challans, expired Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates, and other dues.

This technology-driven approach seeks to make motorists more aware and accountable, complementing traditional enforcement methods. The system aligns with efforts to reduce violations in a city where over 1.21 crore vehicles are registered and nearly 30,000 traffic violations occur daily.

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The initiative comes amid growing fines collected by Bengaluru traffic police, Rs 106 crore from 37.86 lakh cases in just three weeks after a 50% concession on pending e-challans. The AI billboard demonstrates a proactive approach: rather than just penalising, it educates drivers and nudges compliance in real time.

Traffic authorities hope to expand this smart monitoring system across other major junctions in Bengaluru to enhance commuter awareness and reduce road accidents. Experts believe such tech interventions could be a model for other Indian cities grappling with high traffic violations and congested roads.

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By combining AI, real-time data, and visual alerts, these smart billboards can instantly inform drivers about:

•    Pending traffic fines or challans,
•    Expired Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates,
•    Ongoing traffic violations or hazards ahead.

This proactive approach does more than just penalise drivers, it educates and nudges compliance, reducing accidents and encouraging responsible driving. When integrated with other smart city technologies, AI-powered billboards can help cities like Bengaluru manage congested roads, improve traffic behavior, and enhance overall commuter safety.

However, their effectiveness depends on scale, proper implementation, and public awareness, meaning they should complement, not replace, traditional traffic enforcement and civic education.

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