Smart Camera Network Expands

Intelligent surveillance system targets phone use, seatbelt violations, and reckless lane changes

TDT | Manama 

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain is stepping up road safety enforcement with an expanded network of smart cameras capable of automatically detecting a wide range of traffic offences, a senior official announced at the Bahrain Smart Cities Summit 2026.

Lieutenant Colonel Khalid Mubarak Bu Qais, Director of the Traffic Culture Directorate, said the system goes beyond simply recording violations—it aims to deter dangerous behaviour before it leads to tragedy.

"A moment of distraction behind the wheel can change a life in seconds," he warned, adding that a single wrong decision on the road can cause injuries that affect victims for years.

The system uses AI-powered algorithms to identify offences including illegal overtaking through emergency lanes or pavements, running red lights, speeding, mobile phone use while driving, and unsafe lane changes. It also flags seatbelt violations, illegal U-turns, driving against traffic, ignoring road signs, failure to keep right, and children seated in the front seat.

Once a camera captures an incident, the system conducts an automatic analysis and prepares photographic evidence for human review. Each case is verified for accuracy before a violation is confirmed or rejected. Motorists retain the right to appeal through official procedures.

Lieutenant Colonel Bu Qais said the system integrates artificial intelligence, plate recognition, and two-way connectivity with other traffic platforms.