Big Brother is Watching in Siliguri: E-Surveillance to Curb Traffic Chaos, Speeding (Image of Traffic cameras monitoring vehicles in Siliguri)

The plan to install an electronic surveillance system in Siliguri is being considered by the state transport department in an effort to reduce traffic accidents and identify and stop cars exceeding speed restrictions.

During his visit on Thursday, State Transport Minister Snehasish Chakraborty said that the system was operational in Calcutta and had contributed to a decrease in traffic accidents.

"In Siliguri, we intend to implement the system, particularly on roads that have black spots, or sections that are prone to accidents." In order to prevent accidents, this technology assists us in finding a fast car using a camera, tracking it, and intercepting it on the road, according to Chakraborty.

The minister spoke with department representatives stationed in all seven north Bengal districts—aside from Malda—during his tour.

Speaking with reporters, Chakraborty also announced that his department has implemented a program to eliminate penalties for fitness certifications, motor vehicle taxes, and permit renewals.

According to Chakraborty, the renewal of the certificates of fitness for the state's eight lakh or more automobiles may bring in around Rs 2,600 crore in Bengal. In addition, 12.5 lakh more automobiles have motor vehicle taxes delinquent.

"We have developed a waiver program that allows car owners to avoid penalties provided they make their payments by the end of February, which is the next two months. The incentive is available for both public and private automobiles, according to the ministry.

For reasons of safety, Chakraborty said, e-rickshaws will not be permitted to operate on roads.

He said, "We have also made it clear that locally manufactured e-rickshaws without any parameters have to be seized and dismantled."

According to Chakraborty, the transport agency recently purchased 300 buses, including battery- and CNG-powered vehicles.