Proposals for real-time traffic management remain in limbo as Kozhikode still relies on outdated signals
By The Hindu Bureau
Copyright thehindu
Short of special funds, several innovative proposals submitted by senior police officers to streamline Kozhikode’s traffic signalling system and migrate to AI-powered real-time traffic management remain ignored. These plans, aimed at reducing bottlenecks and improving traffic flow through dynamic signal control, are yet to be discussed among experts or subjected to any scientific study to evaluate their operational models.
“Many major junctions in the city still run on outdated signalling systems that fail to sync with present traffic patterns, causing frequent snarls and long delays during peak hours,” says a retired police officer who was among those who had earlier proposed modern traffic management solutions. He adds that traffic police are often forced to manually regulate traffic under extreme weather conditions because of faulty or inefficient signals.
Junctions such as Mavoor Road, Eranhipalam, Arayidathupalam, Palayam, Pottammal and Medical College are among the worst affected by the traditional systems. In contrast, the Kozhikode bypass road—equipped with advanced signalling systems—witnesses smooth traffic flow, a difference that further highlights the limitations of the city centre’s outdated network.
According to preliminary estimates prepared by experts for the Kerala State Electronics Development Corporation (Keltron), installing AI-powered signalling systems would cost around ₹5 lakh per junction. These systems are designed to count vehicles in real time and automatically adjust signal intervals based on traffic volume. Experts say this approach could reduce waiting times, clear bottlenecks faster, and improve overall flow.
Functionaries of the Road Accident Action Forum, a State-level organisation working to reduce road accident deaths, point out that the Road Safety Fund—currently underutilised or diverted for other purposes—could be pooled for advanced traffic management projects.
A senior police officer with the Kozhikode city traffic said that Keltron has already submitted a detailed proposal for a State-wide count and classification system in traffic management. If implemented, it would automatically register vehicle numbers and types at intersections and modify signal patterns independently to streamline movement.
“The proposal also recommends installing anti-glare filters on AI-enabled cameras. These filters will ensure clear visuals of vehicles and drivers, especially in cases of rule violations,” he said. According to him, the data collected could also support stricter enforcement and long-term traffic planning.
A senior Revenue department official, who was earlier associated with the Kerala Road Safety Council projects, said a pilot study should be conducted immediately to evaluate the result and scope of speedy implementation, as a responsive traffic management system could emerge in the future. He said at least one junction in the city should be converted as a model with public or private partnership to accurately experience the results.
