Tamil Nadu Buses To Leverage AI For Safety. Here's How

A pilot project will install AI-powered driver monitoring systems in 500 buses, detecting fatigue and distraction to improve driver attention and avoid accidents.

By monitoring eye movement, head tilt, and posture, the system provides immediate alerts to help avoid accidents.

Source : Pixabay

The Tamil Nadu government has unveiled a large-scale plan to improve road safety and transport efficiency by introducing cutting-edge technology in state-run buses. Through the Institute of Road Transport (IRT), tenders worth Rs 17 crore have been floated for the installation of AI-based surveillance and driver monitoring systems.

As part of the initiative, 4,000 buses will be equipped with 360-degree camera systems costing Rs 15 crore. Each vehicle will have four wide-angle, high-definition cameras providing complete panoramic coverage to eliminate blind spots. These surveillance units come with advanced features such as wide dynamic range (WDR), auto white balance, digital noise reduction, and infrared capabilities for night vision. The footage will be transmitted securely to ensure data privacy compliance, reported Times of India.

AI To Watch Over Drivers In Pilot Rollout

In parallel, a Rs 2 crore pilot project will introduce AI-powered Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) in 500 buses across the state. Priced at Rs 40,000 per unit, these systems use infrared sensors and artificial intelligence to detect driver fatigue, distraction, and drowsiness, as reported by IANS. By monitoring eye movement, head tilt, and posture, the system provides immediate alerts to help avoid accidents.

Each DMS setup includes an infrared camera mounted strategically—on the A-pillar, dashboard, or windshield—along with a high-speed image processor and an electronic control unit (ECU) that continuously tracks the driver’s attentiveness.

The data gathered from these systems will not only enhance real-time safety but also be analyzed post-trip to refine driver behavior and training programs.