SHILLONG: The Meghalaya High Court has sought a detailed report with additional information from the state government about the progress of installing CCTV cameras and Automatic Speed Detection Devices in the state capital to curb rash driving and overspeeding.
The court’s order came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by legal activist Romilton Pahsyntiew to improve road safety and traffic management in the city.
The court, during the hearing, observed that despite the government’s previous promises, there had been no progress in activating the CCTV cameras and speed detection devices.
N Syngkon, the counsel representing the PIL petitioner, informed the High Court about an affidavit submitted by the state government on August 14, 2024. He highlighted that paragraphs 4, 5, and 6 of the affidavit indicated minimal progress in activating the essential safety devices.
The court has asked the government to provide exact timelines for the implementation of these measures.
The court also acknowledged that the PIL aims to address the lack of enforcement of traffic laws and the need for a better traffic safety system.
During the hearing, the Additional Advocate General (AAG) informed the court that corrective measures regarding iron plates on the roads were underway.
The High Court has granted both the petitioner and the state respondents permission to submit additional affidavits providing updates on the progress of safety measures and identifying areas where traffic hazards still exist.
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The government had earlier proposed to install over 300 CCTV cameras with facial recognition features and Automatic Speed Detection devices to regulate traffic and reduce crimes.
