Vizag to roll out AI driven traffic management systems

Vizag is joining the group of cities that have switched from fixed traffic signal timers to AI-based roads, under a project called SARTHI (Systematic Augmented Radial Traffic and Hoop Induction).

By April 2026, Vizagites could see artificial intelligence-driven surveillance with over 2,000 high-end cameras visible at 56 corridors (like RK Beach Road) across 102 junctions in the city under this ₹60-65 crore worth project.

Speaking to The Hindu on Tuesday (February 24), GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg said: “A team will be visiting cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad from Wednesday (February 25) to study the best practices and incorporate them into SARTHI.

Mr. Garg said that the objective of SARTHI is to reduce waiting time at red lights and ensure safer roads for all. The project will consist of two main systems – Adaptive Traffic Control (ATCS): This system will be installed at 102 junctions. Instead of using simple timers, it will use sensors to detect traffic density. If one side of the road is full and the other side empty, the system will automatically extend the green light to clear the jam. The second is the AI-powered Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), which will monitor over 90 junctions.

“These systems will enable instant identification of vehicles with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). It will catch those jumping signals with its Red Light Violation Detection (RLVD) feature and automatic E-challans,” said Mr. Garg.

“With project SARTHI, Visakhapatnam is stepping into a future where artificial intelligence manages rush hour headaches, speeds up travel and holds traffic violators accountable in real time. This project is currently the “gold standard” for smart cities across the world,” said Mr. Garg.

Several metropolitan cities in India have already introduced similar systems to combat their traffic jams. Bengaluru has implemented ATCS. Chennai recently launched its Adaptive Signal System with the support of Japanese Technology (JICA).

“One of the most advanced models in India is in Trivandrum. Their system integrates facial recognition (FRS) along with traffic flow sensors,” another GVMC official, who will be on his way to Trivandrum, told The Hindu.