Ex-IAF Pilot Starts AI-powered Deposit Locker System In Vizag
The innovative locker system combines artificial intelligence, biometric authentication and military-grade security to address the growing demand for secure storage solutions within urban communities: The pilot, Vijay Arisetty
VISAKHAPATNAM: A former Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot, drawing from his military background, in his 10 years career Served as a helicopter pilot and retired as Squadron Leader. He also worked for three years as a VVIP pilot and a shaurya Chakra Awardee has launched what he claims is India's first technology-enabled safe deposit locker system designed specifically for gated communities.
The pilot, Vijay Arisetty, said the innovative locker system combines artificial intelligence, biometric authentication and military-grade security to address the growing demand for secure storage solutions within urban communities.
He has started the locker system through his company called Aurm. His reason for starting the venture came from his own challenging experience in Bangalore. "I had to practically blackmail my bank to get a locker, threatening to close my account. Even then, I had to travel six kilometres to access it,” he explained.
The pilot’s research revealed a stark reality. Areas like Yendada in Visakhapatnam, with about 6,000 flats, are served by 3–4 banks offering a mere 600 lockers combined.
Currently operational across three cities – Hyderabad, Bangalore and Visakhapatnam, there are 2,000 lockers operational in Visakhapatnam across three locations, with plans to reach 5,000 by year-end.
The new locker system offers three size options. Small (₹10,000), Large (₹15,000), and Jumbo (₹25,000). The system incorporates an AI-powered surveillance network with 2,000 sensors distributed across panels. Users enjoy 24/7 access through biometric authentication, eliminating the need for physical keys or cards.
The entire setup operates under military-grade security protocols with real-time monitoring through 365-degree video coverage. Each locker comes with insurance coverage of up to ₹1 crore, while the entire process from registration to access is streamlined through a mobile app for hassle-free on-boarding.
The system features a unique dual-chamber design consisting of a monitored strong room and a private chamber without CCTV cameras, allowing users to access their belongings with complete privacy and discretion.
Talking to this correspondent, Vijay Arisetty dwelt on his ambitious expansion plans with 40,000 lockers across 150 locations by 2025, scaling up to 90,000 lockers by the end of the following year.
He said the AI-based surveillance system can distinguish between genuine threats and false alarms. When a real threat is detected, the system automatically alerts the nearest police station, gated community security and privately hired armed personnel, with a promised response time of 15 minutes.
To ensure responsible usage, locker holders must sign an undertaking stating that no drugs, illegal weapons, unaccounted money, gold or highly regulated items will be stored in the locker.
