GANGTOK, : The Sikkim Transport department has stepped forward to dispel rumours circulating on social media regarding an alleged ‘Wrong AI Challan’, emphasizing the reliability and effectiveness of its AI-based challan system.
In a press statement Tuesday, the Transport department clarified that in the isolated incident in question, a reversal message was sent to the vehicle owner via SMS within 6 seconds of the challan being issued, followed by a WhatsApp notification.
According to the Transport department, the incident stemmed from a rare technical glitch caused by an unexpected internet outage at a junction - a factor beyond the department’s control. While a motorbike rider without a helmet was present, a brief internet disruption led the system to capture an incorrect evidence image.
However, the system’s auto-check mechanism swiftly identified the error, reversing the challan within 6 seconds and notifying the owner immediately, the department said.
“Out of 32,000 challans issued to date, this remains the only such case,” a department spokesperson stated, attributing the glitch to a possible National Informatics Centre (NIC) outage or a temporary drop in ISP services-issues akin to a phone or computer freeze, resolved with a simple restart.
The Transport department has since resolved the bug and implemented additional checks to prevent recurrence.
Despite the swift correction, online criticism has overlooked the system’s robust track record, said the department.
The department maintained that the AI-based challan system operates under strict guidelines:
Outdated Documents:Challans are issued only when a vehicle’s documents are not updated.
Fake or Physical PUC: Vehicles with fake Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates or no valid PUC are flagged. However, physical PUCs are recognized as valid, and related challans are waived.
Frequent Reminders: Violators receive regular SMS reminders for pending challans to promote compliance.
Guaranteed Accuracy: If a challan is proven to be wrongly issued despite valid documents, the department pledges to refund double the challan amount—a bold assurance of the system’s precision.
Far from being a tool for unjust penalties, the AI system is designed to enhance road safety and ensure compliance. The department highlighted its success in tackling serious violations, such as duplicate number plates and fake registrations.
“Just today, an individual approached our office about a vehicle scrapped years ago but still being misused with the same number,” the spokesperson revealed. Additionally, the system has identified and reported 15 vehicles with fake number plates—offenses that traditional methods would struggle to detect.
The Sikkim Transport department reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging technology for the public good.
“This system has ensured timely document updates, reduced violations, and made our roads safer. One-off technical hiccups should not overshadow its overwhelming success,” the spokesperson added, urging the public to see beyond social media trolling and recognize the broader benefits of the AI-powered initiative.