NATIONAL: India’s First Digital Highway: AI Tracks Traffic in Seconds
On June 25, 2025, India unveiled its first AI-powered Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) on the Dwarka Expressway, marking a transformative step in modernizing national highways. This 56.46-kilometer digital corridor, integrating cutting-edge surveillance and enforcement, sets a new benchmark for road safety and traffic governance.
Pioneering AI-Driven Traffic Management
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in collaboration with the Indian Highways Management Company Limited, launched the ATMS under 2023 guidelines. Covering the Dwarka Expressway and a 28-kilometer stretch of NH-48, this system establishes India’s first digital highway. Its core objective is real-time traffic monitoring and rapid incident detection.
Comprehensive Surveillance Infrastructure
Equipped with 110 high-resolution PTZ cameras, the ATMS ensures 24/7 surveillance, with one camera per kilometer. The system detects 14 types of violations, including speeding, triple riding, and non-compliance with seatbelt regulations. These cameras feed data to a central command center, enhancing enforcement efficiency.
Integration with NIC E-Challan Portal
The ATMS is seamlessly linked to the NIC e-challan portal, enabling instant transmission of violation data to police authorities. This integration ensures swift issuance of challans, deterring rule-breaking and promoting compliance. The system’s real-time alerts streamline law enforcement processes.
Multifaceted Traffic Management Systems
The ATMS comprises five key components: traffic monitoring, video incident recording, vehicle speed tracking, dynamic signboards, and a centralized control hub. This “digital brain” instantly notifies highway staff of accidents, fog, road obstacles, or animal intrusions, ensuring rapid response.
Enhancing Road Safety Awareness
NHAI is spearheading awareness campaigns to educate motorists on road safety and proper highway usage. The ATMS supports these efforts by providing data-driven insights into traffic patterns and violations. These initiatives aim to foster a culture of responsible driving.
National Expansion on the Horizon
The success of the Dwarka Expressway project has prompted NHAI to plan a nationwide rollout of ATMS across all national highways. This ambitious vision aligns with NHAI’s goal to develop 10,000 kilometers of digital highways by FY 2024–25, revolutionizing India’s road infrastructure.
A Model for Future Highways
The Dwarka Expressway’s AI-powered system sets a national standard for smart traffic governance, blending technology with safety. Its scalability offers a blueprint for modernizing India’s highway network. The initiative reflects a commitment to safer, smarter roads.
Challenges and Expectations
While the ATMS promises enhanced enforcement, its success hinges on public cooperation and robust maintenance. Scaling this technology nationwide will require significant investment and coordination. Stakeholders anticipate measurable reductions in accidents and violations