Mumbai-Pune Expressway's New ITMS Hits Bumps: Real-Time Challan Issues Persist

The recent introduction of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is designed to enhance road safety through real-time traffic monitoring and enforcement. However, the system is currently experiencing some challenges, particularly with issuing real-time challans.

Initial Challenges

Launched just a week ago, the ITMS is the first of its kind on any highway in Maharashtra. While the system is already operational on various highways globally, its implementation on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway has faced initial hurdles. The State Transport Commissioner noted that the ITMS is a new initiative and that they are working to fully understand and optimise its functionality.

Current Operational Issues

At present, the ITMS relies on an external agency to collect and analyse data on traffic violations. However, this agency does not have the authority to issue challans directly. The process involves the transport assistant inspectors evaluating the collected data, which can lead to delays and errors in enforcement. Some incidents have already highlighted these issues, including wrongful challans being issued for violations that did not occur. Efforts are being made to reduce the current delay in challan issuance from three to four days to within 48 hours.

Mumbai-Pune Expressway Details

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway, also known as the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway, spans 94 kilometres from Kalamboli in Navi Mumbai to Kiwale in Pune. Since its inauguration in 2002, it has been a key route in Maharashtra and now features AI-powered cameras installed every 10 kilometres. Despite the initial setbacks, the ITMS has already led to a significant increase in the number of daily challans issued, rising from 100-200 to about 4,000.

ITMS Technology And Functionality

Previously, traffic enforcement on the expressway relied on a human-operated interceptor vehicle that covered a limited range. The ITMS operates 24/7, aiming to regulate common traffic violations such as wrong-lane driving, lane cutting, and speeding. The system's advanced AI-based cameras are expected to improve road discipline and overall traffic management.

The ITMS currently monitors traffic from 45 gantries and 50 poles, equipped with a total of 115 cameras. The types of traffic violations detected include driving without a seatbelt, using a phone while driving, and speeding beyond the restricted limit. Despite the challenges, the ITMS has shown promise in enhancing traffic regulation and driving discipline.

Monitoring And Patrolling

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway's traffic assistant inspectors, stationed at the Kusgaon, Lonavala Control Centre, work around the clock to monitor the system. There are plans to increase their number to further improve monitoring capabilities. While the ITMS has reduced the need for visible highway patrolling, patrols continue to deter violations, with marshals actively maintaining order, especially during nighttime.

Future Plans

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), responsible for this project, is considering extending similar ITMS initiatives to other major highways in the state. Six tenders have already been floated, including for ITMS implementation on the old Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Success in these ventures could set a new benchmark for traffic management and road safety across Maharashtra.