United News of Bangladesh

For years, Dhaka’s streets have symbolised chaos, frustration and poor traffic management, with endless gridlock and widespread disregard for zebra crossings turning daily commuting into a nightmare for millions. Against this backdrop of chronic congestion and mismanagement, police have begun introducing AI-based CCTV cameras and modern traffic signal system at major intersections in the capital — a move that is already showing early signs of restoring some discipline on the roads. Alongside the smart surveillance system, the launch of an e-prosecution or digital case management system has also started reducing incidents of traffic signal and zebra crossing violations by drivers, according to officials. Traffic officials  believe that once fully implemented, the technology-driven system could significantly reduce the need for direct police intervention on roads, improve transparency in law enforcement and make traffic management more efficient in the overcrowded capital. They also said the long-term success of the initiative will depend on technological capacity, adequate manpower and greater public awareness. According to officials of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), AI-powered CCTV cameras have already been installed at 22 key intersections, including Bijoy Sarani, Gulshan-1 and 2, Jahangir Gate, Hotel InterContinental, Shahbagh, High Court Crossing, Kadam Foara, Matsya Bhaban, Kakrail Mosque Crossing, Police Bhaban, Old Ramna Thana Crossing, Banglamotor, Karwan Bazar, Rampura Traffic Box and the Mirpur National Heart Foundation area. Under the new system, AI-driven cameras automatically detect vehicles and drivers violating traffic signals and zebra crossing rules. The footage is then reviewed by the DMP Traffic Technical Unit (TTU) which files digital cases against violators.