Daijiworld Media Network – Margao

Margao, Jul 16: The Goa government has reportedly begun rolling out AI-based traffic signals across parts of South Goa, adopting a cautious approach to enforcement following concerns over technical glitches and opposition from local residents.

Officials said the new system was introduced on Wednesday, but enforcement is expected to be implemented gradually. A few traffic signals in villages have also been kept outside the ambit of the AI-based monitoring system for the time being.

Road Transport officials attached to the RTO enforcement wing at Arlem said the system would take a few days to become fully operational and declined to provide details on enforcement measures at this stage.

The phased rollout comes amid strong objections from residents of Benaulim, Betalbatim and Navelim, who have raised concerns over the installation of traffic signals at narrow junctions in their villages. Officials indicated that the authorities do not intend to push ahead with enforcement at these locations until the issues are addressed.

Sources said the decision to proceed cautiously also follows a recent incident in which a Road Transport official reportedly encountered problems due to a malfunctioning traffic signal at the Arlem junction.

The matter was immediately reported to the control room at the RTO office in Arlem, which is operated by a private agency.

According to sources, the agency has been instructed not to rush enforcement whenever technical issues arise with the AI-based traffic signals, as doing so could lead to complaints and public backlash from motorists.