NEWS – A new super-app, ASTraM (Actionable Intelligence for Sustainable Traffic Management), is soon to be launched in Bengaluru. Developed by the Bengaluru Traffic Police, this app aims to simplify commuting in the city by providing comprehensive, real-time traffic updates and other essential features in one platform.

HIGHLIGHTS

Purpose of the Super-App

• Single Platform for Traffic Updates: Designed to eliminate the need for multiple apps and social media platforms for traffic updates, ASTraM will be a central resource for commuters.
• Accident and Incident Reporting: Users can report accidents and other incidents that may affect traffic directly within the app.
• Improved User Accessibility: Unlike the initial version of ASTraM, limited to police use, this public-oriented version will be available for everyone.

Key Features of ASTraM

• Real-Time Traffic Congestion Alerts: Provides users with live traffic information within a 5-kilometer radius, helping them make informed decisions on route planning.
• Traffic Violation Reporting: Allows users to report violations and accidents by uploading images, ensuring user anonymity.
• Integration of Multiple Services: Combines features of existing services, such as Public Eye, and adds new functionalities in a unified interface.
• Traffic Fine Management: Enables users to view and pay their traffic fines directly from the app, streamlining the payment process.

Future Enhancements for Police Use

• Expanded Usage for Traffic Police: The app will serve as a tool for traffic police to report road incidents, increasing their operational efficiency.
• Microsimulation Modeling:
  • Digital Mapping of City Traffic: Microsimulation models will provide a virtual map of Bengaluru, allowing the traffic department to simulate vehicle movements on a street-by-street basis.
  • Testing Traffic Management Scenarios: The app will enable virtual testing of road projects (e.g., road closures, changes in one-ways) to assess potential impacts before real-world implementation.

Supplementary Traffic Improvement Initiatives

• Upgraded Safety and Visibility Measures:
  • New Signboards and Thermoplastic Markings: Part of the ‘Safe Routes to School’ project, enhancing safety near schools.
  • Solar Blinkers and Cat’s Eyes: Installation of 150 solar-powered blinkers and thousands of cat’s eyes to improve nighttime visibility on roads.
• Body-Worn Cameras for Police: Distribution of 500 body-worn cameras to ensure transparency and accountability in traffic enforcement.
• Signal Reallocation: Traffic signals from 32 junctions equipped with Japan’s MODERATO system will be reassigned to underserved junctions to improve traffic management.

Project Timeline and Budget

• Project Approval and Funding: The super-app and its associated projects were approved by the government with a total budget of ₹55 crore.
• Timeline for Implementation:
  • Finalization of Contracts: Tenders for the projects were issued in October, with all work orders to be completed by the end of November.
  • Completion of Projects: The majority of the work, including the super-app launch, is scheduled for completion by January.