Pune: Twelve AI-powered CCTV cameras with digital display warning boards will be installed along Weikfield Chowk to Lohegaon airport and the VIP Road (Symbiosis College Road) by the end of Oct to reduce traffic congestion and tackle illegal parking near the airport.Parking on these two critical stretches is already prohibited to prevent bottlenecks caused by cabs and private vehicles that drop off or pick up passengers. However, many motorists bypass the designated parking facilities at Aeromall and opt to stop illegally by the roadside, causing frequent traffic snarls and inconvenience to commuters and residents.Vice-president of AeroMall YS Rajput said the cameras were expected to be installed from Shubh Gateway Chowk to the airport (around 500 metres) on VIP Road and from Weikfield chowk to the airport (around 700 metres) on Airport Road. “We’re coordinating with airport officials and Pune traffic police to begin operations by the end of next month or early Nov,” he added.The AI-enabled cameras will be linked to a control room. The system will display a warning on nearby boards when an illegally parked vehicle gets detected and give the driver two minutes to move. Failure to comply will result in a fine of Rs500.Rajput further said funding for the initiative is expected to come from corporate sponsors under corporate social responsibility schemes.An airport official said designated parking facilities are already available near these routes. “There’s parking at the AeroMall and a private space on VIP Road. However, drivers, including of cabs and autos, often choose to wait along the road to avoid paying parking fees,” he said, adding, “The behaviour peaks during late evenings when traffic police presence is minimal.”Additional commissioner of police Manoj Patil said traffic authorities have provided input for the initiative. “We didn’t install digital displays at FC Road because of high traffic density and risk of accidents. However, the airport area would benefit from such measures, especially since our personnel are not present during late evenings and nights. The cameras could act as deterrents to illegal parking,” he added.Frequent flyers and residents have welcomed the move, but expressed frustration over delays.“Two months ago, we were told cameras would be installed soon. Why can’t all three agencies coordinate and get this done quickly?” said Rishabh Rukare, a businessman from Koregaon Park. “The situation becomes chaotic after 10pm. Cabs get delayed, pickups are missed and everything worsens when it rains. Cameras will help, but there should also be private security guards posted at night.” Authorities are under pressure to deliver swift solutions to ensure smoother airport access and traffic management as the festive and travel season approaches.
