AI cameras to curb illegal firecracker bursting in city

Bengaluru police have introduced artificial intelligence (AI) software in surveillance cameras to detect and report illegal firecracker bursting in the city.

Residents often light firecrackers after 10 PM during festivals, birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or religious events, disturbing the public. In response to widespread complaints, AI-enabled cameras will now automatically alert the city police control room when violations occur.

Currently in a pilot phase, the system was tested at over 200 locations including Srirampura, Malleshwaram, K.R. Market, HSR Layout, Haralur, Marathahalli, and Bellandur. During the five-day trial, the AI cameras captured firecracker activity 24/7, sending over 2,000 alerts to the control room. Of these, 850 alerts were after the 10 PM legal limit. Senior police officials noted that this technology can also be adapted for other monitoring purposes.

Under the Nirbhaya initiative, Bengaluru has around 9,000 surveillance cameras, with over 50 locations already equipped with AI modules for traffic violations. In addition, public safety laws have facilitated installation of 5 lakh cameras citywide. The AI system identifies smoke and firecracker activity, automatically notifying authorities for swift action.

“The AI software installed in the city’s cameras has successfully completed the trial phase. Alerts from illegal firecracker activity are automatically sent to the command center. Following this, full-scale deployment will be implemented across Bengaluru,” said Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh.

The initiative aims to curb noise pollution, protect public safety, and ensure compliance with the law while maintaining festive celebrations responsibly.

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