Pune Traffic: AI Cameras on FC Road Issue Fines for Halts Over 60 Seconds, Spark Public Debate
Pune, 23rd July 2025: A traffic challan issued through AI-based surveillance cameras on the busy Fergusson College (FC) Road has triggered public debate over automated enforcement and the definition of obstruction under traffic regulations.
The challan, issued on July 14, cited a vehicle parked on a yellow line and levied a fine of ₹500 for obstruction. The penalty was backed by time-stamped images from AI-enabled cameras installed along the stretch. The vehicle owner contested the violation, stating the vehicle was stationary for a brief period and did not block the flow of traffic.
Following the incident, Pune Traffic Police issued a clarification on July 21, stating that FC Road is a designated no-parking and no-halting zone. According to the traffic authorities, any vehicle halting for more than 60 seconds is liable for action, and the AI surveillance system is programmed to detect and report such violations automatically.
The clarification further emphasized that the AI system is designed to enhance enforcement efficiency and reduce human intervention in monitoring high-traffic zones.
The incident has sparked varied responses on social media, with some users suggesting legal recourse and others questioning the AI system’s calibration and implementation. While a section of the public demanded AI-based oversight on traffic personnel as well, others raised concerns about road conditions in contrast to stringent enforcement.
@RTO_Pune @PuneCityTraffic I had applied for grievances regarding the wrong
challan, but it was rejected. My vehicle was only standing on a yellow line without causing obstruction. I’ve attached proof. Please review again and take necessary action to cancel this challan. pic.twitter.com/HHD489AzrL— Swapnil Bhujbal (@Bhujbalspeaks) July 19, 2025
The vehicle owner has submitted a formal appeal for a review of the challan, attaching supporting evidence to dispute the claim of obstruction.
FC Road remains one of the monitored zones in Pune where AI camera systems are actively used to identify parking and halting violations exceeding the one-minute threshold.
