Lahore deploys AI-powered drones to tackle traffic congestion and smog

LAHORE: Lahore Traffic Police have deployed a fleet of artificial intelligence-powered drones to monitor traffic congestion and seasonal smog in real time, marking a major technological upgrade in the city’s traffic management system.

The initiative replaces the traditional reliance on stationary CCTV cameras and manual traffic wardens with active aerial surveillance aimed at improving traffic flow and enforcement.

Equipped with thermal imaging and high-definition cameras, the drones are being flown over major roads and congestion hotspots to identify the underlying causes of traffic bottlenecks.

The footage captured by the drones is processed through locally developed artificial intelligence software used by Lahore Traffic Police, where predictive algorithms analyse traffic patterns, identify illegal obstructions and recommend data-driven engineering and enforcement measures.

Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi said drones are deployed immediately whenever reports of traffic congestion are received to assess the situation and provide real-time intelligence.

He said the technology would not only help manage daily traffic but also support long-term urban planning by identifying recurring structural issues affecting road networks.

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The drones will also be used to detect smoke-emitting vehicles contributing to Lahore’s air pollution, along with traffic violations including one-way driving, illegal parking and roadside encroachments that reduce road capacity.

The CTO said the system would strengthen coordination between traffic enforcement and urban development agencies.

He added that where drone footage indicates poor road design or infrastructure deficiencies as the primary cause of congestion, the evidence will be shared with the relevant authorities to facilitate engineering improvements.