Bangladesh will gradually expand an artificial intelligence (AI)-based “Auto Fine System” across highways nationwide to automatically detect and penalize traffic violations, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said.
The system has already been introduced on the Dhaka–Chittagong Highway, and it will be gradually expanded to other highways after evaluating its performance and operational experience.
The minister said the system would make highway traffic management more effective by improving road safety, maintaining traffic discipline, reducing road accidents and enabling swift and transparent action against traffic violations.
A total of 490 AI cameras have been installed on pillars along the Dhaka–Chittagong Highway. The cameras will automatically detect and record violations including speeding, dangerous overtaking, failure to obey traffic signals and road signs, driving on the wrong side of the road and illegal parking.
Once a traffic violation is detected, information about the vehicle will be sent directly to the database of the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). An SMS containing details of the violation and the applicable fine will then be sent to the registered mobile phone of the vehicle owner.
Vehicle owners will also be able to pay fines from home through mobile financial services (MFS). Repeated traffic violations could result in stricter administrative and legal action, including cancellation of the vehicle’s registration.
The Home Minister also warned that strict action would be taken against illegal toll collection on highways. He said no one would be spared, regardless of whether those involved were members of transport owners’ associations, workers’ organisations or the police.
CCTV and AI cameras will record such activities, helping to curb illegal extortion and make highways safer and more disciplined, he said.
Meanwhile, unauthorised three-wheelers and non-motorised vehicles will not be allowed to operate on highways, and police will take immediate action against them under existing laws.
The minister also urged the Highway Police, Bangladesh Police, transport owners, workers’ organisations and the public to cooperate in ensuring the successful implementation of the AI-based system.
He further stressed the need to increase public awareness about traffic rules and the use of the AI system through print, electronic and online media as well as social media platforms.
The “Auto Fine System” was inaugurated at the Highway Police’s Command, Control and Monitoring Centre in Meghnaghat, Sonargaon, Narayanganj.
Ref/Photo: Dhaka Tribune
