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The Maharashtra government has decided to pause an experimental project to install AI-powered cameras at liquor shops and bars in Mumbai that were meant to verify customers’ age using facial recognition.
This decision was taken after shop owners raised concerns regarding the high cost of installation (Rs 4.5 lakh/installation) and the challenge of monitoring over 2,000 outlets from a single control room. Questions were also raised regarding the cameras meeting the specified requirements, as they were linked to a single vendor, now under scrutiny. Reviewing these issues in a meeting led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the government decided to halt the project, prioritising practicality and public feedback.
The trial was initially planned for Mumbai, with the possibility of statewide implementation based on its success. Mumbai has around 2,000 liquor shops and permit rooms, and expanding the project across the state would involve more than 7,000 outlets and bars.