Beware, cameras are watching you

Manama : Smart cameras installed at traffic signals will not only capture vehicles crossing the red light, but also monitor over-speeding, said head of accidents and violations at the General Directorate of Traffic Captain Ahmed Al Saadi.

“The smart cameras that have been fixed at traffic junctions are not limited only to monitoring the crossing of traffic signals, but also the speed limit of vehicles crossing when the signal is green,” Capt. Al Saadi said in a statement.

 “Traffic junctions are part of the road and are covered by the traffic rules,” Capt. Al Saadi said.

“It’s essential to follow the speed limit, especially at the junctions, which have higher risk of accidents if the speed limit isn’t followed,” the official stressed.

“Drivers that follow speed limits could deal with road surprises and prevent being involved in accidents,” he said.

“The cameras have contributed in reducing the number of accidents. Engineers from Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry had determined the speed limits on main and sub-roads, in accordance to traffic flow or residential or work areas,” Capt. Al Saadi said, calling upon drivers who are used to cross traffic signals to “think of the safety and lives of others”.

Al Saadi’s statements came in response to the increasing public outcry and confusion over traffic fines and violations. 

Many drivers in Bahrain are not aware that the cameras at traffic signals capture cars that cross the speed limit of the road, as the general impression is that the cameras would only snap pictures of cars that cross the red light.

It was recently confirmed that exceeding the speed limit within 30 per cent would subject drivers to a fine of BD50 and if it is paid within a week the amount would be reduced to BD25.