GCC to Launch ₹530-Crore Intelligent Transport System in August

The Greater Chennai Corporation will launch the ₹530-crore Intelligent Transport System across the Chennai Metropolitan Area in August to transform urban mobility and improve traffic management. GCC Commissioner G.S. Sameeran stated that the project, implemented with financial assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, marks a major step toward making the city safer and more commuter-friendly.

The project comprises two main components: the Traffic Information and Management System for the Greater Chennai Traffic Police and the City Bus System for the Metropolitan Transport Corporation.

Under the traffic management component, advanced equipment is being installed at strategic locations to facilitate real-time traffic monitoring, automated enforcement, and data-driven management. Significant progress has already been achieved on the Adaptive Traffic Signal Control System, with installations completed at 101 junctions and integrated with the traffic police's temporary Traffic Control Centre.

Automated enforcement measures are also being deployed across key points. The Red-Light Violation Detection System is operational at 25 locations, featuring automated number plate recognition and automatic challan generation. The Speed Limit Violation Detection System is currently installed at three locations, with plans to expand to seven shortly.

Furthermore, Traffic Incident Detection Systems have been set up at 47 strategic flyover locations to enable faster emergency response times, while Variable Message Sign Boards have been placed at three locations to provide real-time updates and alternative route options. A modern Traffic Information and Management Centre is also being established at the Greater Chennai Traffic Police Headquarters to serve as a centralized hub, with completion expected by the end of August 2026.

The public transport component focuses on upgrading operations across the bus network. This includes deploying Automatic Vehicle Location Systems in 3,500 Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses, Passenger Information Systems at 616 bus stops and depots, and Depot Management Systems across 32 depots to offer accurate live tracking and arrival details.

Implementation activities are moving forward across the city, supported by necessary network infrastructure permissions from the civic body and the State Highways Department. Alternate sites have been identified where initial equipment setup was technically infeasible, while power connections and minor junction improvement works are being carried out to complete deployment.