How AI is helping Bengaluru Police make the city safer
What's the story
The Bengaluru City Police is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies under its Safe City Project. The initiative aims to improve public safety, reduce response times, and optimize policing resources. AI-driven surveillance systems, facial recognition technology, predictive policing models, and integrated command operations are all part of this effort.
Tech integration
AI tech maps location and dispatches nearest vehicle
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh explained how AI technology is improving their emergency response. He said, "Once we receive a distress call through 112, we don't need to ask the caller about the location." Instead, their tech maps the exact location and dispatches the nearest Hoysala patrolling vehicle. The average response time is around 10 minutes, but it can vary between two and 20 minutes depending on various factors.
Surveillance system
Access to 5 lakh geo-tagged cameras
The Safe City Project has also led to the installation of around 10,000 cameras across Bengaluru. The police also have access to five lakh geo-tagged cameras in private establishments and residences. "Any police station can access up to 20 minutes of footage from these cameras online without hassle," Singh said.
Rapid action
Swift response to a domestic violence incident
The Bengaluru police have also employed AI-enabled face recognition cameras and Automatic Number-Plate Recognition systems to trace individuals quickly. This tech was instrumental in responding to an incident on November 11, where a man and woman were seen arguing near Tree Park Metro station. The Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) used live footage with AI/ML support to dispatch a Hoysala patrolling vehicle from Kadugodi police station within 12 minutes of receiving the distress call.
Child rescue
AI used to locate an abandoned infant
The ICCC also used AI support to analyze CCTV footage and locate an abandoned infant in Halasur Gate police limits on November 11. Hoysala staff reached the site within 14 minutes and took the baby to Vanivilas Hospital for urgent care. Authorities are now reviewing AI-assisted video analytics to identify the person responsible for abandoning the child.
Drug bust
AI-assisted video analytics helped in drug bust
On November 5, a foreign national selling banned narcotics was arrested at Chikkabanahalli, Kadugodi. This was after a tip-off to 'Namma 112.' The ICCC used AI and ML to alert Hoysala staff who reached the spot within 16 minutes. Police seized 361 ecstasy tablets (162gm) worth ₹8 lakh from the accused.