Speed cameras to be installed on Ranchi flyovers, over-speeding to invite instant e-challans

In a move aimed at curbing over-speeding and improving road safety, the traffic police have proposed installing surveillance cameras on major flyovers in Ranchi. Once implemented, vehicles crossing the speed limit will automatically be issued challans through SMS alerts on registered mobile numbers.

According to officials, speed-monitoring cameras will be installed on the Siramtoli and Kantatoli flyovers, two of the city’s busiest traffic corridors. The cameras will capture vehicle images along with number plates using automatic number plate recognition technology, helping authorities identify offenders accurately.

The speed limit on these flyovers will be fixed at 80 km per hour. Any vehicle found exceeding the limit will trigger an automatic challan system linked to the transport database. The violator will receive the challan directly on their mobile phone, reducing the need for physical checking on the roads.

Traffic police officials said the proposal has been sent to the transport department and police headquarters for approval. Once cleared, the system will be integrated with the Smart City Command Centre, from where real-time monitoring and enforcement will be carried out.

Apart from checking over-speeding, the cameras are expected to assist in identifying stolen vehicles and tracking those involved in criminal activities. Officials said the system would also help regulate traffic flow and reduce accidents caused by rash driving, particularly during late-night hours when speeding is common.

Currently, the traffic police lack fixed speed enforcement mechanisms on flyovers, making it difficult to penalise violators. With the installation of automated cameras, enforcement is expected to become more consistent and transparent.

Authorities said awareness signboards displaying the speed limit will also be installed on the flyovers before the system becomes operational. The initiative is being seen as part of Ranchi’s broader push towards technology-driven traffic management under the Smart City framework.

If approved, Ranchi will join the growing list of Indian cities using automated surveillance to enforce traffic rules and enhance commuter safety.