Is Tamil Nadu Installing 360-Degree Cameras and Driver Monitoring Systems in Government Buses?

Chennai, June 4 (NationPress) In a significant step towards enhancing passenger safety and boosting operational efficiency, the government of Tamil Nadu has issued tenders amounting to Rs 17 crore for the installation of cutting-edge surveillance and driver monitoring systems in buses operated by State Transport Undertakings (STUs).

The implementation of this project is being managed by the Institute of Road Transport (IRT).

This initiative follows an announcement made by Transport and Electricity Minister S.S. Sivasankar during discussions on the Transport Department’s budget in the Assembly.

According to the tender notifications released by the IRT, the government aims to equip 4,000 buses with 360-degree surveillance camera systems at an estimated cost of Rs 15 crore. Additionally, a pilot project costing Rs 2 crore will introduce Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) in 500 buses.

Every bus involved in the camera project will be outfitted with four high-definition wide-angle cameras, offering a complete panoramic view that assists in eliminating blind spots.

With a unit price of Rs 37,500, these cameras will feature wide dynamic range (WDR), auto white balance, digital noise reduction, and infrared capabilities for low-light conditions. The systems will also ensure encrypted data transmission and adhere to established data protection regulations.

Minister Sivasankar previously informed the Assembly that the 360-degree surveillance systems will be instrumental in identifying pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles that conventional mirrors often overlook, particularly in congested urban settings.

The live footage captured will also act as crucial legal evidence in the event of road accidents.

The Driver Monitoring System (DMS) units, each priced at Rs 40,000, will utilize artificial intelligence and infrared sensors to monitor drivers for indications of fatigue, distraction, or drowsiness. These systems will track eye movements, head positioning, and posture, issuing real-time alerts for immediate corrective actions.

Furthermore, each DMS unit will log behavioral data to assist in post-trip analysis and inform training interventions for drivers.

This initial rollout on 500 buses is a pilot phase, with opportunities for broader implementation based on its success and feedback from transport authorities. This initiative signifies a major technological upgrade for Tamil Nadu’s public transportation system, promising to enhance both passenger safety and driver accountability throughout the fleet.