DMP to install 1,000 'plug and play' cameras to restore discipline on Dhaka roads

In addition to AI-equipped cameras, the traffic division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has taken the initiative to install 1,000 'plug and play' cameras to restore discipline on the capital's roads. Work has already begun on installing these cameras on the 300 Feet Road.

Traffic Division Additional Police Commissioner Md Anisur Rahman shared the details while visiting the new initiative at the Mohammadpur bus stand area in the capital on Tuesday (July 28).

Speaking to journalists, he said, "We have taken the initiative to install new cameras under the 'plug and play' system. As AI cameras are comparatively expensive, this approach has been adopted to cover more areas quickly within budget constraints. The memory cards in these cameras will directly record video. Legal action will be taken against violators after reviewing the footage."

He further said approximately 1,000 such new cameras will be installed at key points across Dhaka in phases. Work has already started at various locations on the 300 Feet Road.

Regarding the existing AI cameras, the Additional Police Commissioner said, "Currently, 37 AI cameras are operational at 16 points across the city and are functioning effectively."

On semi-automatic traffic signals, Md Anisur Rahman said, "Semi-automatic traffic systems are currently operational at 13 signals. However, it is not always possible to keep them functional. Mechanical faults, heavy rain or unforeseen circumstances sometimes force us to shut down the system. Coordinating motorised and non-motorised vehicles in the same city can often be challenging, forcing us to turn off signals in some cases."

He added, "As per directives, preparations are underway to activate another 50 signals under Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) within a very short time. We will be able to activate them as soon as the necessary infrastructure is ready."

Expressing concern over noise pollution, the Additional Commissioner said, "In many cases, even without traffic congestion, vehicles including ambulances sound their horns unnecessarily. This excessive noise pollution is extremely harmful. Traffic police are suffering severe hearing damage. Not just ears — we are being affected by lung problems, mental stress, headaches, backaches and various physical ailments. This damage cannot be compensated with money. We all need to come together to save this city. Without discipline on the roads, it will not be possible to leave a liveable city for future generations. That is why our campaign against illegal horns, hydraulic horns and illegal lights is ongoing. But regrettably, the tendency to break rules is still very high. Everyone must become aware to overcome this situation."

In response to a question, he said the DMP traffic division files over 50,000 cases on average per month, collecting approximately Tk 120 crore in fines annually.

Meanwhile, the Traffic Tejgaon Division has taken a special initiative to ease congestion at the Mohammadpur bus stand area. A road divider on the road from Dhanmondi to Bashila adjacent to the bus stand has been removed, and three signals have been reduced to two. Traffic police expect this will significantly reduce congestion in the area.

On this matter, Traffic Tejgaon Division Deputy Commissioner (DC) Md Rafiqul Islam said, "The Mohammadpur bus stand area has long suffered from severe congestion, causing immense public suffering. To alleviate this, we have made some changes. An island in the middle of the road has been removed, and the existing signal system has also been modified — one signal has been reduced."

He said vehicles coming from the west side of Dhanmondi will not be able to take a direct right turn under the new system. They will have to go straight, take a U-turn in front of Moyur Villa and enter the Asad Gate area. With the reduction of one signal, vehicles will no longer have to wait for long periods, ensuring smoother traffic flow.

On this matter, Additional Commissioner Md Anisur Rahman said, "We hope this change will reduce public suffering in the area. Although the road capacity is relatively low, vehicle pressure is much higher. We have tried to ensure maximum use of this road and reduce public suffering."

'Plug and play' cameras are a type of easy-to-use technology that automatically starts working when connected, without any complex setup or additional software configuration. In simple terms, these devices start functioning immediately after connecting a cable or memory card and plugging into a power source.