Blinking green light instead of amber draws complaints from commuters
Panaji: More than two years after the installation of an AI-powered traffic signal and CCTV camera system at the circle near Gharant restaurant in Porvorim, a faulty signal sequence has allegedly led to confusion, traffic violations, and issuance of fines.
The system, installed in January 2023 under the joint supervision of the Traffic Police and Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL), has not been corrected despite repeated complaints from the public and officials.
Images captured at the site on Monday show all three signals turning red simultaneously without an amber warning. Vehicles were seen stranded mid-way or coming to a standstill from multiple directions. The signal, which is expected to flash a blinking orange light to warn drivers of an impending red, instead blinks green for 15 seconds. This has misled drivers into proceeding through the intersection, only to be stopped abruptly by a red light.
“I once crossed at the green blinking signal and suddenly it turned red—I was shocked to later receive an e-challan for signal jumping,” said Ramesh Naik.
Several motorists said that they have had to halt suddenly during peak hours at the circle.
“It’s extremely confusing. I slowed down thinking it was safe, but the signal turned red in seconds. I nearly got hit from behind,” said Shruti Desai. “This kind of error can cause accidents. Authorities must act before someone gets seriously injured.”
A traffic police officer posted at Porvorim circle said they have received several verbal complaints. “This is a technical glitch in the smart signal software. Unfortunately, our requests to IPSCDL have not been actioned yet.”
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has also taken note of the issue. “Such blinking green signals could be misleading. The current configuration needs immediate rectification,” said an RTO official.” Vendors and pedestrians said they often hear screeching brakes and loud horns. “It’s scary. Someone could get hurt,” said Maya Gaude, who runs a juice stall near the signal.
