Punjab deploys AI to catch helmetless riders

LAHORE: In a tech-savvy move, Punjab has initiated the use of artificial intelligence to catch motorcycle riders without helmets.

The Safe Cities Authority in Punjab has introduced a pioneering software designed to identify and track helmetless riders in Punjab through CCTV cameras.

IG Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, highlighted that the Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s cameras, powered by this software, will be instrumental in identifying motorcyclists violating helmet regulations.

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Punjab Police aims to uphold traffic rules by leveraging advanced technology based on artificial intelligence as well as to catch helmetless riders.

Motorcycle riders found without helmets through this AI-based system will face fines. The software, developed by SSP Rafat Bukhari under the guidance of MD Safe Cities Ahsan Younis, is anticipated to encourage citizens to adhere more diligently to traffic regulations.

Following the directives of the Lahore High Court, riding a motorcycle without a helmet incurs a fine of Rs. 2,000.

REMOVAL OF FIRs FOR HELMETLESS RIDERS

Earlier the Chief Minister on the orders of the Lahore High Court had removed the FIR restriction for motorists without helmets and had  suggested new ways to create awareness against precautions and increase fines.

Justice Shahid Karim suggests that FIRs are too severe for helmetless drivers. The Senior Superintendent of Police reports over 26,000 FIRs filed for helmet violations.

Acknowledging the role of helmets in reducing road accidents, Punjab Police, through various measures included heightened fines, for successfully curbing helmetless riding.

As a reminder, wearing a helmet is not just about avoiding fines but is crucial for preventing accidents while commuting in the city.