Mangaluru: The Karnataka government has sanctioned ₹20 crore for the installation of an extensive network of artificial intelligence (AI)-based cameras across the Mangaluru (erstwhile Ullal) Assembly constituency to strengthen traffic enforcement and support crime investigation, Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader announced on Monday.
Speaking to reporters, Khader said the project aims to enhance public safety, improve traffic management and assist law enforcement agencies through advanced surveillance technology across key locations in the constituency.
AI cameras to cover strategic locations
Under the project, AI-enabled cameras will be installed at prominent locations throughout the constituency, including major roads, junctions and entry points connecting Kerala and Mangaluru city.
The surveillance network will also extend to interior areas that currently lack adequate monitoring infrastructure. In addition to AI-based traffic cameras, closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras will be installed in various localities to improve overall security coverage.
According to Khader, the project has been designed to create a comprehensive surveillance system capable of monitoring vehicle movement, detecting traffic violations and assisting police investigations.
The installation of cameras at key border entry points is expected to help authorities monitor the movement of vehicles entering the city from neighbouring Kerala.
Focus on traffic enforcement and crime detection
Khader said the primary objective of the AI-based cameras is to strengthen traffic enforcement by automatically detecting violations and improving compliance with road safety regulations.
The advanced surveillance system will also serve as a valuable tool for crime detection and investigation. Police officials will be able to access recorded footage and real-time feeds to identify suspects, track vehicle movements and gather evidence related to criminal activities.
Currently, AI-based cameras installed under the Mangaluru Smart City Limited project do not cover areas such as Ullal, Deralakatte and several neighbouring localities. The new initiative is expected to bridge that gap and extend smart surveillance infrastructure to underserved regions.
Officials believe the expanded network will significantly enhance policing capabilities and improve response times during emergencies.
Proposal prepared with city police
Khader said the proposal for the project was prepared in consultation with the Mangaluru City Police. After detailed discussions and planning, the proposal was submitted to the state government, which approved it a few days ago.
The approval marks a major investment in public safety infrastructure within the constituency. Authorities expect the project to complement existing surveillance systems already operating within Mangaluru city.
The integration of AI technology is expected to make monitoring more efficient by enabling automated detection of traffic violations and suspicious activities.
Separate command centre planned
As part of the project, a dedicated command centre will be established to monitor and manage feeds from the surveillance cameras.
The command centre will function as the central hub for receiving, analysing and responding to information captured by the camera network. Personnel stationed at the facility will be responsible for observing live feeds, reviewing recorded footage and coordinating with law enforcement agencies when required.
The proposed command centre is expected to improve coordination between surveillance teams and police authorities, enabling quicker responses to incidents and violations.
Police Housing Corporation to execute project
The Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation has been entrusted with executing the project.
The agency will oversee the installation of cameras, development of the command centre and implementation of related infrastructure. Authorities expect the project to be carried out in phases to ensure effective deployment across all targeted locations.
Once completed, the surveillance system is expected to become one of the most extensive AI-based monitoring networks in the region.
Educational institutions to support maintenance
Khader said private educational institutions in the constituency will play a role in maintaining the surveillance infrastructure after installation.
These institutions will be tasked with supporting the upkeep of the cameras and contributing towards the salaries of personnel employed at the command centre.
The model is intended to ensure the long-term sustainability of the project while reducing the burden on government resources for routine maintenance and operational expenses.
Officials believe collaboration between public institutions and private stakeholders will help maintain uninterrupted functioning of the surveillance network.
Conclusion
The ₹20 crore AI camera project marks a significant step towards strengthening traffic management and public safety in the Mangaluru (Ullal) Assembly constituency. With cameras planned at strategic locations, border entry points and interior areas, along with a dedicated command centre, the initiative is expected to enhance traffic enforcement, aid crime investigations and improve overall security across the constituency.