Dhaka’s traffic enforcement has entered a new digital era as AI-powered CCTV cameras begin automatically detecting traffic violations across the capital, even in the absence of traffic police personnel at intersections.
According to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the system, integrated with modern traffic signals and an e-prosecution platform, has already led to the filing of around 1,000 traffic cases within just 10 days of its experimental launch on May 7. During the same period, approximately 5,000 video footage records have been collected for verification and processing.
DMP Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Md Anichur Rahman said the AI-based surveillance system has been installed at six major points and 25 key intersections across Dhaka. He added that footage is being continuously collected and reviewed by the Traffic Police Technical Unit (TTU), after which legal notices and cases are being issued to vehicle owners and drivers.
“After verification of the footage, cases are being processed and sent to the concerned individuals,” he said, adding that the system is still in its initial phase and public response is being closely observed.
Rahman noted that several operational challenges have already emerged, particularly due to unclear or missing number plates, which hinder vehicle identification. The traffic division is preparing to issue a public notice addressing these issues.
AI-based CCTV cameras at 6 points and 25 important signals
The DMP Traffic Division has taken a strict stance to restore discipline on Dhaka’s roads. AI-powered CCTV cameras have been installed alongside modern traffic signals at Hotel InterContinental, Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Banglamotor, Bijoy Sarani, Jahangir Gate, Farmgate, and 25 other important intersections.
Traffic officials on several major roads say this technology-driven system will reduce the need for direct police intervention on the roads. It is also expected to increase transparency in law enforcement and positively impact traffic congestion management. However, experts believe that technological capability, sufficient manpower, and public awareness are all essential for the system to function effectively.
These systems are designed to detect a wide range of violations, including running red lights, crossing stop lines, wrong-way driving, blocking zebra crossings, helmet and seatbelt violations, mobile phone use while driving, illegal parking, and unauthorized use of VIP lights.
Areas where AI cameras have been installed include Shahbagh, High Court Crossing, Kadam Fountain, Matsya Bhaban, Kakrail Mosque Crossing, Police Bhaban, Old Ramna Thana Crossing, Banglamotor, Bijoy Sarani, Karwan Bazar, Rampura Traffic Box, National Heart Foundation area on Mirpur Road, Gabtoli, and Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Sarani, among other important intersections.
Impact visible on the streets
The impact of the new AI camera system was visible on Saturday morning at Karwan Bazar intersection. Although traffic volume remained heavy, the effect of technology-based monitoring on traffic control was evident. AI-enabled cameras installed around the intersection were actively monitoring violations such as signal jumping, stop-line violations, and wrong-way driving.
It was observed that many drivers are now more cautious during signal changes compared to before. Traffic personnel on duty said awareness among motorcyclists has especially increased. Previously, many drivers ignored signals if no traffic police were present, but the presence of cameras is now changing their behavior.
Ashraful Islam, a banker and motorcyclist at Karwan Bazar, said, “I hope this technology will help restore discipline on the country’s roads. The road situation has improved compared to before, and travelling has become less risky.”
Several traffic sergeants and inspectors told Dhaka Tribune that the AI camera system has made it possible to identify traffic violations quickly. Previously, officers had to stop vehicles physically, which consumed time and contributed to traffic congestion. They believe that once fully implemented, the technology-driven system will bring more positive changes to traffic management.
DMP Traffic Inspector (TI) Md Sabdul, who was on duty at Karwan Bazar intersection, said, “Earlier, taking action against a violating vehicle took a lot of time. Now, since footage is collected through cameras, we can focus more on overall traffic management.”
According to DMP traffic sources, the cameras installed across the capital are using “Road Transport Act-2018 Violation Detection Software.” The system automatically identifies vehicle number plates from recorded footage and collects relevant information. After verification, the case process is completed. Notifications are then sent to the vehicle owners or drivers via SMS and official notices to their addresses.
