Improving regulation: CCTV cameras to monitor traffic

SSP Traffic says cameras will be able to take snapshots of licence plates.

Installation and systems maintenance costs will be covered by the traffic police department. PHOTO: FILE

PESHAWAR:


Traffic police have decided to install cameras across the city to monitor and regulate the flow of traffic, and keep a check on violations.


An estimated 260 cameras will be required to cover urban areas. Out of these, 60 high-resolution cameras will be needed for the Cantonment area. The installation could cost as much as Rs20.14 million and a tender will be issued soon.

SSP Traffic Asif Iqbal Momand told The Express Tribune video cameras, which are used in developed countries to enforce traffic laws, have also been employed to solve traffic jams.

There will be three control rooms where traffic will be monitored 24 hours a day, he said, adding the cameras will also have day and night monitoring capabilities. “These are two-in-one close circuit cameras that can easily capture a snapshot of a licence plate even at night. Their installation would definitely improve the traffic situation in the city.”


The cameras will be backed up by uninterrupted power supply (UPS) units, which will be installed with every CCTV camera to ensure monitoring during load-shedding and power outages.

The 260 cameras will increase the traffic police’s situational awareness and will enable them to respond to any traffic jams or road accidents within 15 minutes of detection, said the SSP.

“Every single traffic violation will be recorded and violators will be punished as we will be able to check their license plates,” said another traffic police official, adding cameras will be able to rotate 360 degrees.

Installation and systems maintenance costs will be covered by the traffic police department, added the official. “We will be able to provide all information to police as three mini-screens will be installed at the DSP headquarters and city and town offices.”

The official claimed the system would revolutionise the regulation of traffic, which has been a major issue due to the construction of flyovers and security arrangements to protect sensitive buildings.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 21st, 2013.
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