AI Takes Charge: Bengaluru’s Tech-Driven Success in Silencing Late-Night Diwali Fireworks

For the first time, Bengaluru deployed an AI-enabled monitoring system under the Bengaluru Safe City Project to address the perennial problem of late-night firecracker bursts during Diwali. Around 7,500 surveillance cameras across the city, including 200 focused in densely populated neighborhoods, were integrated into the system.

The AI uses advanced video analytics with the Awiros Video Intelligence OS to detect indicators of firecracker activity — bursts of light, smoke plumes, and unusual crowd gatherings. Upon detection, alerts containing time, location, and visual evidence were instantly sent to the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and frontline police teams via WhatsApp, enabling rapid response.

Joint Commissioner of Police Kuldeep Kumar Jain credited the technology with vastly improving enforcement accuracy and on-ground responsiveness—key in reducing noise levels and protecting public health during the festival. Residents noted significantly lesser disturbances post-10 pm compared to prior years, attributing the success to this high-tech initiative.

Key Highlights:

AI system integrated with 7,500 city cameras for firecracker detection.

Real-time alerts led to 41% drop in complaints after 10 pm cutoff.

Advanced analytics identified light bursts, smoke, and crowds.

Efficient police response improved noise control and air quality.

System showcased a model for AI-driven civic enforcement.

Sources: Hindustan Times, The Hindu Business Line, Financial Express