In a groundbreaking achievement, students and faculty from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela have developed a smart roadside system that acts as an extra pair of eyes on treacherous blind curves. Priced at an astonishingly low cost of just 6,000 rupees (about $75), this technology promises to slash accidents on narrow rural and hilly roads where visibility is severely limited.
The innovation addresses a critical road safety gap. On blind bends, drivers often can’t spot oncoming vehicles until it’s too late. This smart system, equipped with sensors and cameras, continuously monitors traffic approaching the curve from both sides. Using advanced computer vision algorithms, it calculates vehicle speeds and distances in real-time. If a collision risk emerges, it instantly triggers audio and visual alerts to warn drivers.
What sets this apart is its edge computing capability—no need to send data to distant servers. Processing happens right on-site with compact processors attached to the cameras, ensuring split-second responses. This low-latency feature is vital in high-risk zones where every millisecond counts.
Developed by a team from NIT Rourkela’s Electronics and Communication Engineering department, the system has undergone successful real-world tests. It not only prevents crashes but also integrates emergency response: upon detecting impacts via specialized sensors, it alerts police, fire services, ambulances, and nearby hospitals.
The technology leverages Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing, making it deployable near sharp turns. With a one-time setup cost under $100 and a patent already filed, experts see massive potential for nationwide rollout, especially in underserved areas. NIT Rourkela’s director hailed it as a proud moment, underscoring how student-faculty collaborations are delivering real-world societal benefits.
As India grapples with rising road fatalities—over 150,000 annually—this affordable innovation could transform safety standards, potentially saving thousands of lives each year.