Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said on December 14 that the state government intends to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to manage traffic and curb crime.
Addressing the legislative council, Shivakumar, who also holds the Bengaluru development portfolio, emphasised the government's collaboration with nine institutions to address Bengaluru's traffic challenges. "We are planning to use technology, particularly AI, for traffic management and crime prevention".
He said 25 congested junctions in Bengaluru have been identified, and a private firm has been entrusted to prepare a feasibility report. "A comprehensive traffic management plan, using technology such as AI, will be implemented at a cost of Rs 28 crore to reduce traffic bottlenecks at these junctions"".
Also, read: Tech capital Bengaluru to use AI for road traffic management
He highlighted the need for a comprehensive, long-term plan to address the high traffic volume on five major roads.
Shivakumar underscored Bengaluru's significance, contributing 39% of the country's total technology export revenues.
The government is exploring solutions, studying solid waste management models in cities like Delhi and Hyderabad, with plans to visit Indore for further insights.
Shivakumar said they have gathered suggestions for enhancing 'Brand Bengaluru' across various sectors like health, drinking water, technology, and the environment.
Also read: Brand Bengaluru: 70,000 suggestions from citizens; ball in Karnataka govt's court
White-topping plan
Highlighting the pressing issue of deteriorating roads due to heavy traffic, Shivakumar said that Rs 1,000 crore allocation for the white-topping project.
"There are more than 1.1 crore vehicles in Bengaluru Every day, over 1300 two-wheelers and 490 cars are registered every day in Bengaluru. White topping is viewed as a lasting solution (25-40 years) to address potholes and road damage" he said.
"The menace of digging for cable laying has increased in Bengaluru, and it is damaging roads. White topping needs to be taken up systematically. I will soon call for a meeting of the legislators to understand the need for white topping in different areas of Bengaluru,” he said.
Property tax revision
Shivakumar also hinted at a revision of property taxes to boost the revenue of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), stressing the need for financial independence.
“The government has been releasing funds for the BBMP, but it needs to generate more revenue and reduce dependency on the government. We are looking at increasing taxes to generate more revenues and strengthen the finances of the BBMP. We need to work together to protect Bengaluru’s self-respect and reputation,” said Shivakumar.
Also read: Congress party's poll guarantees: A tightrope walk awaits new Karnataka government
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