The first AI traffic cameras have arrived in Cyprus and are expected to be installed on Griva Digeni Avenue in Nicosia, replacing existing cameras that are currently out of operation.
The decision was taken by the Traffic Police, while the necessary procedures by the company responsible for the installation are expected to be completed before the two new cameras become operational.
Cameras to detect phone use and distractions
According to Traffic Police officer Tasos Asikkis, the new AI systems will not record the three violations already monitored by fixed cameras – speeding, crossing the white line and running red lights.
Instead, the cameras will focus on other driving offences, including failure to wear a seatbelt, failure to wear a helmet, mobile phone use and other actions that distract drivers while behind the wheel.
The cameras use artificial intelligence technology to identify movements or actions inside a vehicle. Once a possible violation is detected, the system begins recording and analyses whether the driver is engaging in prohibited behaviour.
Mobile phone use among leading causes of crashes
The introduction of AI traffic cameras comes amid concerns over driver distraction, particularly the use of mobile phones while driving.
Studies examining the causes of fatal road collisions in Cyprus indicate that distraction caused by mobile phone use is among the leading factors behind road deaths.
Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades recently highlighted the dangers of drivers using their phones, warning that many people even scroll through content while driving, putting their own lives and those of others at risk.
The Transport Ministry supports the introduction of AI-powered fixed cameras as a measure to reduce phone use behind the wheel. The system will initially operate on a trial basis and will be evaluated depending on the results.
Mobile cameras to focus more on urban areas
Authorities have also instructed mobile camera units to spend more time operating in cities rather than on motorways, as urban areas record a higher number of road accidents and collisions.
At the same time, authorities are examining a proposal for fixed motorway cameras that would calculate average speed between entry and exit points.
Drivers exceeding speed limits would be identified based on the time taken to complete their journey, with fines issued in cases of violations.
Hundreds of thousands of outstanding fines
Meanwhile, the Police continue efforts to process outstanding traffic fines issued through the photo-enforcement system.
Around 360,000 fines remain pending, including more than 50,000 issued during the first year of operation of fixed cameras.
Authorities are examining a legislative proposal that would allow drivers to receive notifications about outstanding fines through SMS messages or email.
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