Experts state that speed cameras are a powerful deterrent against motorists
LAHORE: The Lahore traffic issue can be resolved without any policy changes or much change in action by the traffic police. Just a little planning and thought can go a long way which can consequently only mean a win-win for our traffic department and government.
Traffic surveillance cameras that are fitted along the major roads in Lahore were to regulate traffic and laws. Fines for breaking traffic laws on the roads would be directly sent on the drivers registered address. This was a good initiative that was supported by all stakeholders but till date no one has claimed to receive any ticket. A good amount of money went into installing these cameras, which should unarguably not only be paid back but also help make profits. In the UK, only the speed cameras earn the UK police force more than three million pounds sterling per year. Such statistics prove relieving for us, as we now know we too can earn considerably which could positively impact our economy. However, cameras here are not being used to their fullest.
A minimum speeding fine of hundred-pound sterling is charged to the offender which makes up Rs20,000 compared to a mere Rs750 on our motorways. I am a proponent of increasing these fines. Additionally, three penalty points are given on the licence. Six penalty points procured by a licence and it is cancelled. Regaining the driving licence requires going through the whole excruciating process of tests with an additional surplus on car insurance. There is definitely no getting away with breaking the law.
Experts state that speed cameras are a powerful deterrent against motorists and can help to reduce the number of fatal accidents on roads. Cameras can watch for higher numbers of speeding motorists than the traffic police with mobile cameras and at a much lower cost freeing up the police for other duties.
Ammarah Niaz
Published in The Express Tribune, December 9th, 2019.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
