DUBAI: Dubai Police have stepped up traffic law enforcement efforts with the installation of additional radars and surveillance cameras in various locations to detect people using mobile phones while driving. These new AI-powered systems are set to impose substantial fines for violations.

Dubai Police recently released a video on social media demonstrating how these cameras can automatically identify lawbreakers. The AI-powered camera can zoom in and accurately determine whether drivers are talking, texting or using social media.

Previously, there was a common belief that cameras and radars in Dubai were unable to detect such violations. However as of 2020, the police transitioned to a smart radar system that aids in spotting mobile phone use, traffic lane violations and other traffic infractions. The penalty for mobile phone use while driving is 800 dirhams which is approximately Rs 18,000.

To discourage illegal driving behaviour, Dubai Police conducts various awareness campaigns and shares videos of accidents involving vehicles using mobile phones on social media platforms. In the past eight months, there have been 99 accidents in Dubai resulting in the tragic loss of six lives. During this period, the police recorded a total of 35,527 violations.