Pune: PMPML to Install AI Cameras in Buses to Boost Passenger Safety and Track Ridership

Pune, 27th June 2025: In a pioneering step to enhance passenger safety and better monitor ridership, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) will soon install Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered cameras across its fleet. Under the plan, each of PMPML’s 1,650 buses will be fitted with four cameras each, amounting to around 6,600 cameras in total. The project is estimated to cost ₹4 crore, with the tender process scheduled to start next week.

Officials said PMPML is awaiting final approvals from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, but successful trial runs of the AI cameras have already been conducted, paving the way for full-scale deployment. The cameras will be installed on both PMPML-owned and leased buses.

First-of-its-Kind Initiative in India
With this initiative, PMPML will become the first public transport undertaking in India to deploy AI on such a large scale. According to officials, one camera will be mounted near the steering wheel to monitor driver behavior, tracking drowsiness, posture, and stress, and will raise an alarm if necessary. The remaining cameras will monitor passenger areas, counting riders, and discouraging ticketless travel.

This is particularly important on busy routes and during late-night services, where crowding can lead to fare evasion. The AI cameras will automatically count passengers and transmit the data to conductors in real time, strengthening fare collection oversight.

Focus on Driver and Passenger Safety
The camera placed near the driver will track facial expressions, signs of fatigue, or abnormal behavior. If any issue is detected, PMPML’s control center will receive an immediate alert to take action.

Nitin Narvekar, Joint Managing Director of PMPML, said, “The AI-based cameras will soon be installed across our fleet. We will begin the tender process next week with a budget of ₹4 crore. This is aimed at improving passenger safety and minimizing fare evasion.”

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has also revealed plans to adopt AI technology in its smart buses, although implementation there is expected to take a few more months.