Multan has officially transitioned into a smart city era with the full-scale implementation of its AI-powered radar and traffic management system. What began as a localized pilot project in late 2024 has now evolved into a sophisticated, 24/7 automated network.
The Multan Development Authority (MDA) and City Traffic Police (CTP) have successfully integrated artificial intelligence to manage congestion and enforce safety. This transformation positions Multan as a regional leader in tech-driven urban governance.
The Evolution of Smart Traffic in Multan
The journey toward automation started on October 10, 2024, when Additional Chief Secretary South Punjab, Fuad Hashim Rabbani, inaugurated the first AI radar on Old Bahawalpur Road. This pilot proved the viability of solar-powered, real-time speed monitoring.
By January 2025, the project expanded to include state-of-the-art signal systems at Eidgah Chowk. These signals utilize unique light projections that cast signal colors directly onto the road surface, ensuring maximum visibility for motorists during thick fog or heavy rain.
| Milestone Year | Key Deployment | Primary Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | AI Radar Pilot | Old Bahawalpur Road |
| 2025 | Smart Signals & Speed Radar | Eidgah Chowk / Khanewal Road |
| 2025 | Safe City Integration | City-wide Camera Network |
| 2026 | Comprehensive Traffic Plan | 21 Major Arteries |
Technical Specifications of the AI Radar
The radar units deployed across Multan operate with a high degree of autonomy. Each station utilizes solar panels for power, ensuring the system remains functional during power outages or grid instability.
The AI software monitors vehicle speeds with extreme precision. Motorists see their speed displayed on large LED screens: Green for compliance and Red for violations. This visual feedback serves as an immediate deterrent to reckless driving.
Beyond speed, the system features AI-based vehicle counting. This data allows the MDA to analyze traffic density in real-time and adjust signal timings dynamically to reduce bottlenecks at major intersections like Nawan Sheher Chowk.
Safe City and the AI E-Challan System
A critical turning point occurred in December 2025, when the Punjab government activated the comprehensive AI-based e-challan system. This network utilizes Safe City cameras to automatically detect and ticket 19 distinct traffic violations.
These violations include:
- Over-speeding detected by the AI radars.
- Seatbelt and helmet violations.
- Illegal lane changes and wrong-way driving.
- Use of mobile phones while operating a vehicle.
The integration of Phase 2 cameras has allowed for a seamless transition of control. While the MDA provided the initial infrastructure, the City Traffic Police (CTP) now manages the enforcement and ticketing data through a centralized digital hub.
The 2026 Comprehensive Traffic Improvement Plan
In January 2026, authorities finalized the Multan Comprehensive Traffic Improvement Plan. This initiative moves beyond digital monitoring to physical road re-engineering. The plan includes modern geometric designs and the installation of advanced guidance signboards across the city’s 21 major roads.
The South Punjab Secretariat continues to prioritize AI as a tool for public service. By combining virtual 3D speed breakers with radar technology, Multan has seen a measurable decrease in urban accident rates over the last 16 months.
Strategic Impact on South Punjab
The success in Multan has prompted the Bahawalpur Development Authority (BDA) to begin adopting similar AI-powered frameworks. This regional alignment ensures that the transit corridor of South Punjab remains under consistent, high-tech surveillance.
The system’s ability to work 24/7 without human intervention reduces the burden on traffic wardens. Officers can now focus on high-priority emergencies while the AI handles routine enforcement and data collection.
As Multan moves further into 2026, the focus remains on refining the AI algorithms to predict traffic surges before they occur. The city’s investment in “Safe City” technology is not just about enforcement; it is a fundamental shift toward data-backed urban living.