AI cameras are changing how traffic rules are enforced in Indian cities. But how do they actually catch violators?

The cameras use computer vision to read number plates, detect lane positions and spot behaviours like wrong-way driving or red-light jumping. Some systems can even detect mobile phone use by analysing the driver’s posture and hand position.

When a violation is detected, the system matches the number plate to the vehicle registry. An e-challan is then generated and sent to the owner’s phone, often within hours of the offence.

Supporters say AI enforcement is fairer than manual checks because it treats every vehicle the same. Critics raise concerns about wrong challans and data privacy. Either way, the technology is expanding fast, and Delhi is the latest city to lean on it.

Privacy advocates want clear rules on how long footage is stored and who can access it. Most cities say data is deleted after a fixed period unless a violation is recorded. As the systems expand, getting this balance right will be as important as the technology itself.