AI Cameras Catch 548 Traffic Violators in Dhaka

Using modern artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cameras on the capital’s roads, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has filed digital cases against 548 individuals for violating traffic laws in just 13 days. As part of the initial phase, the automated surveillance system has been activated at 30 points across Dhaka.

The traffic division said installation work for new devices is underway in the Mahakhali Bus Terminal area, and gradually a total of 500 AI cameras will be connected to signal light poles throughout the capital to bring the entire traffic system under technological monitoring.

According to sources, police are mainly using AI-based “PTZ” (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras to accurately identify moving vehicles and number plates. These cameras can rotate 360 degrees and capture high-resolution images and videos. Each camera, capable of taking clear images from long distances, costs more than Tk 60,000 in the market. The traffic division said installation of additional cameras at important points, including the Mahakhali Bus Terminal, is ongoing.

Meanwhile, although modern AI technology is being used in road management, the process of notifying drivers or vehicle owners about fines from these digital cases still remains largely analog. Currently, case details are being sent through postal mail, though the traffic division said work is underway to introduce instant notifications via mobile text messages.

Despite the stricter technological monitoring, nearly 12,000 video footages have already been stored on the server involving violations such as driving on the wrong side of the road, ignoring traffic signals, and failing to comply with zebra crossings or stop lines.

While welcoming the digital surveillance initiative, drivers in the capital expressed strong frustration and confusion over irregularities at the field level. They alleged that some intersections are still being controlled manually by traffic police and that the sudden placement of temporary plastic barriers or barricades in the middle of roads is creating confusion regarding signal compliance.

Drivers also said maintaining lane discipline has become extremely difficult due to the uncontrolled movement of battery-powered rickshaws alongside high-speed vehicles on major roads. According to affected motorists, unless the disorderly road infrastructure is addressed alongside the installation of modern cameras, digital traffic management will not achieve full success.

DBTech/RI/MUM/OR