Kerala High Court Advocates AI-Driven Solutions for Traffic Management
Court Orders Comprehensive Revision of Bus Timetables and Hybrid Traffic Signal Control for Better Safety
In a significant move aimed at enhancing traffic management and ensuring pedestrian safety, the Kerala High Court, under Justice Amit Rawal, has directed the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to consider AI-based dynamic bus scheduling as part of the revision of stage carriage timetables. The decision came in response to suggestions from various stakeholders, including stage carriage operators and smart bus services, for a more effective traffic regulation system.
The case, WP(C) No. 13238 of 2022, involved petitioners led by Aboobacker K.A. and others, who proposed changes to current bus timetables to prevent accidents and ensure smooth transportation. The court emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive approach, incorporating AI-driven systems, to address the complex traffic issues faced by the city.
Justice Rawal acknowledged the complexities involved, noting that stakeholders proposed a wide range of solutions, from simple timetable adjustments to sophisticated AI-based systems. The court has mandated the RTA to conduct further discussions and data analyses to explore the feasibility of these proposals, with a decision expected within three months.
Additionally, the court addressed traffic congestion during peak hours, modifying an interim order to allow manual control of traffic signals at major junctions. This hybrid traffic management system aims to alleviate congestion effectively, with traffic police personnel manually operating signals during peak hours.
The judgment underscores the court's proactive stance in leveraging technology for public safety, signaling a shift towards innovative solutions for urban traffic management.
Bottom Line:
Regulation of traffic and revision of stage carriage timetables - Court directs RTA to consider suggestions of various stakeholders, including AI-based dynamic bus scheduling, to ensure smooth transportation and pedestrian safety.
Statutory provision(s): Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
Aboobacker K.A. v. Joint Regional Transport Officer, (Kerala) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2783405
