The ST (State Transport) buses in Thane are being upgraded with state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based security systems, offering a new dimension to passenger safety.
On Wednesday, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde inspected one of the smart ST buses in Thane. “Passenger safety is our top priority,” he said. He was accompanied by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and senior officials of the ST Corporation.
Shinde highlighted that around 5.5 million passengers travel daily through ST buses across the state, making it crucial to ensure their safety. The new smart buses will be equipped with integrated AI-based safety systems, which include driver monitoring cameras, CCTV cameras for passenger surveillance, 360-degree blind spot cameras, WiFi, LED screens, GPS tracking systems, and foam-based fire safety systems.
A key feature of these smart buses is enhanced safety for women. The security system will trigger an alarm if the driver is found to be drowsy or under the influence of alcohol. The Deputy CM appreciated Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik’s vision and consistent efforts in bringing about this transformation in the ST services. Shinde noted that Sarnaik has encouraged innovative changes while keeping future transportation needs in mind.
Transport Minister Sarnaik stated that the buses will include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and driver monitoring cameras, which will issue warnings about potential collisions, lane departures, and pedestrian hazards. The buses will also feature sensors for passenger counting, driver assistance screens, mobile GPS tracking, LCD screens, and a public announcement system.
Key Features of Smart ST Buses:
- Driver monitoring cameras to track driver behavior
- CCTV cameras for passenger surveillance
- 360-degree blind spot cameras
- WiFi, LED screens, and GPS tracking system
- Foam-based fire safety system
