The Hindu : Front Page : Traffic management set to go hi-tech in Madurai

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Monday, Jan 08, 2007
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Traffic management set to go hi-tech in Madurai

Staff Reporter

Police have decided to employ broadband wireless technology

MADURAI : Traffic management, which has been a major challenge in Madurai over the years, is set to go hi-tech with the city police planning to employ `WiMAX' broadband wireless technology access for live monitoring and regulation of vehicular movement.

As the number of automobiles is steadily increasing each year with a corresponding rise in accidents, the Commissioner of Police, M. Chidambarasamy, has hit upon the idea of installing speed-dome cameras at important junctions, bus stands and vital installations. A wireless network using `WiMax' technology is being planned to transmit these visuals live on big screens at the Commissionerate and Police Control Room.

"In the first phase, we have plans to install cameras at five junctions enabling live transmission of traffic. A dedicated team would monitor the vehicular flow round-the-clock. In case of traffic congestion, remedial measures can be taken immediately. Since recording is possible for at least a week, the system will also help in crime detection as well. Vehicles involved in `hit-and-run' cases can be easily identified," an Assistant Commissioner of Police said.

A team of Information Technology experts was asked to conduct a study and submit feasibility report by January 15. "Since cameras will also be installed in bus stands, commercial streets and Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, there will be a check on offences such as chain-snatching, pick pocketing and two-wheeler thefts. We are trying to bring this project under the Modernisation of Police Force scheme."

In 2006, the traffic police registered 1.69 lakh cases for various Motor Vehicle Act violations and realised a penalty of Rs. 1.5 crore from the offenders. There were 22 fatal accidents in which 23 persons died, police sources said.

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