Hyderabad: Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Hyderabad’s i-Hub-Data Center has developed scalable, real-world technologies to enhance mobility and road safety in India. The initiative is part of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems.
The institute has developed the following solutions to improve mobility:
One of the innovations is Bodhyaan, an advanced research vehicle equipped with sensors to capture real-time traffic data. Unlike static CCTV cameras, Bodhyaan introduces the element of surprise in detecting traffic violations like helmet-less riding and wrong-side driving. This mobile solution tags violations and enables authorities to issue challans more effectively.
Additionally, leveraging dashcams on cabs and buses has enabled data collection at scale, distributing enforcement across the city. This approach targets two-wheeler violations, addressing a major cause of road accidents.
The institute has also introduced a two-wheeler platform focusing on rider safety and behavior analysis. Technologies like fall detection, smart helmets, and riding score systems could potentially incentivize safe driving through insurance benefits or discounts.
In a multi-disciplinary project, drones with computer vision technology automate infrastructure assessments. These drones significantly reduce manual effort by analyzing building parameters such as height, windows, and rooftop weight distribution from aerial footage.
A flagship initiative, i-RASTE (Intelligent Solutions for Road Safety Through Technology and Engineering), combines AI and sociology to reduce accidents. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in Nagpur buses provided collision alerts and monitored road conditions. Coupled with driver training, this intervention decreased both alerts and accidents.
Beyond urban mobility, IIIT Hyderabad has developed tools for environmental analysis. For instance, a GoPro-mounted two-wheeler mapped tree density in city regions post-plantation drives, creating dashboards for visualizing greenery. Similarly, pothole mapping was integrated into these systems, aiding civic planning.
IIIT Hyderabad’s i-Hub exemplifies AI-driven innovation beyond lab prototypes. These solutions are anticipated to enhance Indian mobility by merging technology and human centric design to ensure safer, smarter roads.
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