Artificial intelligence-supported traffic cameras have been operating on main roads in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, since May 7, 2026. The system established by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police initiates direct action without human intervention for drivers who violate traffic rules.
For violations such as running a red light, crossing the stop line, and blocking the left lane, the camera scans the license plate, records a short video, and sends a notification to the vehicle owner. Thus, an era of automatic digital control has begun in the city instead of manual traffic fines.
Highlights
- The system was activated on May 7, 2026.
- Artificial intelligence cameras were placed at Dhaka's main intersections and signal points.
- Notifications are sent to vehicle owners within hours for violations.
- The police announced that cameras are active at five major intersections in the initial phase.
- Expansion of installations and planning of at least 500 target points in different parts of the city are underway.
How does the violation process work?
The system automatically recognizes the license plate when a traffic rule is violated and creates a file for the relevant vehicle. Records are matched with the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority database to verify the vehicle owner's information. Then, penalty and case notifications are sent to the owner's address.
Officials state that this method marks the first fully automated digital traffic enforcement system implemented in Dhaka. The police aim to conduct most procedures without manual inspection within six months.
Penalty is issued to the vehicle owner
Another notable point in the system is that the penalty applies to the vehicle owner regardless of who is driving at the time. Even if the vehicle is given to another driver, penalty points are deducted from the owner's license.
According to BRTA rules, each driver has 12 points on their license. When points are exhausted, the license is canceled. Therefore, the automatic system results not only in fines but also directly affects the driver's license status.
Mixed reactions
The application has caused both satisfaction and criticism among drivers in the city. Osman Gani, a private driver, said that drivers are now more careful and especially noted an increase in seat belt use.
On the other hand, some users argue that the system targets only private cars and motorcycles, and does not apply the same strictness to buses, rickshaws going the wrong way, vehicles emitting smoke, and vehicles causing road blockages. Another criticism is that pedestrian crossings also disrupt traffic flow, yet responsibility is placed on the vehicle owner.
Fraud warning issued
After the application, it was reported that some fraudsters calling vehicle owners pretending to be officials demanded money. The police announced that fines should only be paid through official banking channels.
A brief controversy also arose on social media with a video claiming that a camera on the road was removed. That video further fueled debates about the security and prevalence of the new system in the city.
Context: The application in Dhaka marks a new era that reduces human contact in traffic enforcement and automates penalties instantly. However, whether the system is fair, inclusive, and equally monitors all road users remains a subject of debate.
