The Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department (MMVD) is set to procure interceptor vehicles equipped with radar systems capable of detecting multiple traffic violations simultaneously, officials announced. These radar-equipped interceptor vehicles, the first of their kind in any Indian state, are expected to greatly increase the efficiency of issuing e-challans by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) flying squads.

The radar system will be installed in 96 interceptor vehicles, most of which have already arrived and are awaiting installation. These vehicles will then be handed over to RTO flying squads. Of the 69 Mahindra-made vehicles already delivered, 27 more are in the process of being procured.

This procurement follows the introduction of 187 AI-powered laser speed gun interceptor vehicles earlier this year, funded by the road safety fund. "While the current speed gun system allows flying squads to issue 10-12 e-challans per hour, the radar-based system will enable 800-900 e-challans per hour," said Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar.

The radar system will capture vehicle speed and take photographs, enabling the detection of multiple violations without stopping vehicles. The system will focus on violations such as speeding, lane cutting, triple-seat riding, and helmetless riding.

Interceptor vehicles will be strategically placed in high-violation areas to ensure effective enforcement. The MMVD has placed an order with Ashoka Buildcon's IT wing for installation of the radar system, expected in 2025.

Each interceptor vehicle costs Rs 12-13 lakh, and the radar system's installation will increase the price to around Rs 16 lakh. This includes a five-year comprehensive maintenance agreement. The system will also include an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) that allows RTO inspectors to generate e-challans using the system's data.