In a strategic move to bolster transparency and efficiency in toll collection, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is exploring the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered audit cameras at high-value toll plazas. This initiative aims to ensure precise vehicle counting and classification, thereby enhancing the accuracy of toll operations across the nation’s highways.
Recent reports have highlighted instances of toll collection fraud, underscoring the need for robust surveillance mechanisms. Notably, allegations of fraudulent activities across 42 toll plazas in 14 states have raised concerns about the integrity of toll operations. In response, NHAI is intensifying its efforts to implement advanced monitoring systems to detect and deter such malpractices.
Accurate vehicle counting and classification are pivotal for equitable toll collection. Traditional systems have encountered challenges in precisely categorizing vehicles, leading to potential revenue losses and disputes. The integration of AI-powered audit cameras is anticipated to mitigate these issues by providing real-time, accurate data on vehicular movement.
The proposed system involves the installation of AI-enabled cameras capable of real-time vehicle detection, counting, and classification. These cameras utilize advanced computer vision algorithms to analyze video feeds, distinguishing between various vehicle types such as cars, trucks, buses, and light commercial vehicles.
The AI-powered cameras are designed to seamlessly integrate with existing toll collection infrastructure, including the FASTag system. This integration facilitates automated toll deductions and minimizes manual interventions, thereby reducing the likelihood of errors and fraudulent activities.
NHAI has initiated pilot projects to assess the efficacy of AI-powered surveillance systems. For instance, a GIS-based software has been deployed to monitor approximately 100 toll plazas, providing real-time data on traffic flow and congestion.
Based on the outcomes of these pilot projects, NHAI plans to expand the deployment of AI-powered audit cameras to additional toll plazas nationwide. This strategic rollout aims to standardize toll collection processes and enhance operational efficiency across the highway network.
By ensuring accurate vehicle classification and counting, AI-powered systems help in maximizing toll revenue and minimizing losses due to misclassification or evasion.
Real-time data from AI-enabled cameras facilitates better traffic management, allowing for prompt responses to congestion and incidents, thereby improving the overall driving experience.
The enhanced surveillance capabilities of AI-powered cameras contribute to improved security at toll plazas, deterring potential fraudulent activities and ensuring compliance with toll collection protocols.
