Nagpur: The Intelligent Integrated Traffic Management System (IITMS) project, aimed at removing traffic bottlenecks, has itself got stuck in gridlock. Already delayed by months, the project has missed yet another deadline, with work completed at only 41 of the city’s 171 traffic junctions despite an extension.Kerala-based Keltron, executing the Rs197-crore project, had sought an extension till Oct 30 after missing the Feb 14 deadline. However, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) granted time only till Aug 31. Despite the extension, work remains pending at most junctions, keeping the proposed traffic network far from operational.NMC’s electrical department officials told TOI that work at 21 junctions has been affected by ongoing infrastructure projects, including flyover construction and road concretisation. Foundation work has so far been completed at around 140 locations, while work has not started at 70 junctions.Of the 171 junctions, 40 already have cantilever traffic signals installed under NMC’s Smart City initiative. Keltron has to complete the remaining IITMS work at these locations, including installation of CCTV cameras. While the upgraded signals have improved visibility, their integration with the citywide network remains incomplete.At the 41 completed junctions, Keltron has installed four applications for traffic monitoring and enforcement, including systems to assess vehicle density, identify slow-moving vehicles and detect traffic violations. But the slow rollout has limited the system’s impact. Traffic signals across the city are yet to be synchronised as envisaged, resulting in frequent stoppages and delays for motorists.The Rs197-crore project includes Rs107 crore in capital expenditure, with the balance earmarked for operation and maintenance of 171 signals for five years. NMC has already paid around Rs48 crore to Keltron, while penalties for the delay total only Rs25 lakh.With both deadlines missed, experts say NMC will have to push Keltron to expedite the pending work while coordinating with other infrastructure projects. Until then, the city’s technology-driven traffic management network will remain only partially functional.INFOBOX | IITMS AT A GLANCE Project cost: Rs197 crore Capital expenditure: Rs107 crore Signals covered: 171 junctions O&M period: 5 years Work completed: 41 junctions Foundation completed: Around 140 locations Work yet to start: 70 junctions Junctions hit by other infra works: 21 NMC payment to Keltron: Around Rs48 crore Penalty imposed: Rs25 lakh Original deadline: February 14, 2026 Extended deadline: August 31, 2026 Extension sought by Keltron: October 30, 2026
