Can AI fix traffic and crime? Zerodha’s Nikhil Kamath dives into Bangalore’s bold new policing experiment

Bangalore, often hailed as India's Silicon Valley, is at the forefront of technological advancements. But beyond its bustling tech parks and thriving startups, the city’s law enforcement is undergoing a quiet revolution, leveraging cutting-edge technology to manage urban challenges and redefine the way policing works.

In a recent episode of WTF is Policing, Nikhil Kamath , co-founder of Zerodha, delved into the evolving landscape of Bangalore’s police force. Joined by Commissioner B. Dayananda and Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) M.N. Anucheth, Kamath explored the transformative impact of technology, the challenges of public perception, and the human side of law enforcement in a rapidly growing metropolis.

Tackling Bangalore’s Traffic Woes with AI and Data

Bangalore’s notorious traffic congestion often dominates public discourse, with gridlocked roads and frustrated commuters becoming defining features of the city. According to Anucheth, Bangalore has the highest vehicle-to-population ratio in India, a consequence of its unprecedented urban expansion.

To address this, the city is embracing high-tech solutions like AI-powered traffic management systems. Tools like ASTRAM and VANKi analyse real-time traffic patterns and violations, enabling dynamic interventions to improve flow and reduce gridlock. These technologies are complemented by adaptive signalling systems and an expanding Namma Metro network, paving the way for a more efficient urban mobility framework.

AI and Drones: The Future of Law Enforcement

Beyond traffic management, Bangalore’s police force is deploying advanced tools to enhance overall law enforcement. AI-powered surveillance systems are being integrated into daily operations to monitor public spaces, detect anomalies, and aid in crime prevention. Drones are also being used for crowd monitoring and patrolling areas that are difficult to access.

These innovations are not just making Bangalore’s streets safer but are reshaping the public’s expectations of law enforcement. “Technology is our partner in managing the complexities of a fast-growing city,” said Anucheth, highlighting the potential of these tools to reduce response times and improve operational efficiency.

Bridging Public Perception and Reality

Despite these advancements, public perception of the police remains a significant challenge. Popular media often portrays law enforcement as inefficient or corrupt, creating a narrative that undermines trust. Films like KGF and Pushpa, as noted in the discussion, contribute to this stereotype by depicting police officers in a negative light.

Kamath emphasized the need for society to recognise the complexities of modern policing. “The gap between what people expect and the realities officers face on the ground is widening,” he said. Commissioner Dayananda added that while policing is a noble profession, the sacrifices it demands often go unnoticed, from gruelling hours to the emotional toll of the job.

Cybercrime: A Growing Threat

As Bangalore’s digital footprint expands, so does the threat of cybercrime. With fraudsters exploiting social engineering techniques, cybercrimes now account for 20–25% of all reported cases in the city. The police have responded by strengthening their cybercrime units and educating the public on preventive measures.

Dayananda stressed the importance of vigilance, urging citizens to be cautious when sharing personal information online. The police are also leveraging digital tools to track and combat these crimes, showcasing the adaptability of Bangalore’s law enforcement in the digital age.

The Road Ahead: Trust and Transparency

While technology is revolutionising Bangalore’s policing, Kamath argues that it’s not a panacea. The effectiveness of these tools hinges on transparency, accountability, and public trust. Striking a balance between surveillance and privacy is critical to ensuring that these advancements are perceived as enablers rather than intrusions.

At its core, policing remains a human endeavour. The conversation highlighted the need for empathy and dialogue to bridge the divide between the police and the public. By recognising the sacrifices made by officers and fostering trust through transparency, Bangalore’s law enforcement can better serve its community.

Redefining Policing in the 21st Century

Bangalore’s police force is navigating a complex intersection of technology, urban growth, and public expectations. As AI, drones, and data analytics redefine law enforcement, the focus must remain on building trust and addressing systemic challenges.

Kamath’s discussion with Dayananda and Anucheth offers a blueprint for modern policing—one that combines innovation with empathy to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. Bangalore’s approach serves as a model for other cities, proving that the future of policing lies not just in tools and technologies but in the relationships that bind a community together.