Kerala’s newly installed AI camera system was grabbing the headlines right from its inception. The system’s errors have sparked numerous debates, and now it has ignited a conflict between two government departments in Kerala regarding the newly implemented challan system.
Few weeks ago, it was reported that the Kerala State Electricity Board cut off the power supply to the Road Transport Office in Kalpetta, Wayanad. This action was in response to a challan issued by the AI Camera system against a KSEB jeep for carrying a ladder on its roof.
Now the conflict between these two departments has escalated to a new level, as similar incidents are also being reported from other districts. As of now, both of the departments have not responded to the incidents.
The RTO office had a pending electricity bill of Rs 11,000, and the KSEB disconnected the power supply for not paying the bill. However, the RTO quickly paid the bill and restored the connection.
Similarly, KSEB also disconnected the electricity supply to the Mattanur RTO office in Kannur district. This office had an electricity bill overdue of Rs 52,000. As a result, the functioning of the AI camera system and charging of the MVD department’s patrolling EVs were affected.
Also, on June 30, KSEB disconnected the electricity supply to the Kasaragod RTO office due to a pending bill of Rs 23,000. KSEB has yet to comment on these actions, but from a third-person perspective, we can see a pattern targeting the RTO offices.
Antony Raju, Kerala State Transport Minister, commented on the situation criticising the Motor Vehicle Department for issuing the challan to the KSEB vehicle. He also stated that as per the circular, emergency vehicles are exempted from the jurisdiction of AI cameras.
According to the circular released by the Kerala government, all emergency vehicles are exempted from the AI Camera system. The vehicles used by the state ministers and VIPs are also exempted from the system.
The installation of AI cameras on Kerala roads is part of the Safe Kerala Project, with the primary goal of reducing road accidents and violations. 726 AI cameras have been installed in various parts of the state.
This ongoing battle not only impacts the operations of the Motor Vehicle Department but also raises questions about the coordination between different government organisations. This incident has sparked the creation of numerous memes online, causing people to mock and make fun of these departments.
