Narayanganj: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today announced that the government will gradually introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-based automated fine system on all highways across the country, following an evaluation of the system launched on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway. "The initiative would bring a major change in highway traffic management by ensuring greater road safety, maintaining traffic discipline, reducing accidents, and enabling swift, effective, and transparent action against traffic law violations," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made this announcement while inaugurating the AI-powered 'Auto Fine System' at the Highway Police's Command, Control, and Monitoring Centre at Meghnaghat in Sonargaon, Narayanganj. The system, which has been implemented on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway, involves AI cameras installed on 490 pillars along the route. These cameras will automatically detect and record traffic violations such as speeding, dangerous overtaking, disobeying signals, driving on the wrong side, and illegal parking.
Once a violation is detected, the vehicle's information will be directly transmitted to the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) database. Vehicle owners will receive an SMS with the offence details and applicable fine, which they can pay from home through mobile financial services. The system also allows for stricter administrative and legal measures for repeated violations, including potential cancellation of vehicle registration under BRTA regulations.
The minister emphasized taking strict action against illegal toll collection on highways, which will be monitored through CCTV and AI cameras. He also cautioned against the operation of unauthorised or unlicensed three-wheelers and non-motorised vehicles on highways, instructing the police to enforce existing laws.
Salahuddin urged the Highway Police to manage essential issues, such as access to local feeder roads and CNG filling stations, in a coordinated manner. He called for collaboration among the Highway Police, transport owners, workers' organisations, and the public to ensure the success of this technology-driven initiative. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns through various media platforms.
The programme was chaired by Highway Police chief Additional Inspector General Faruk Ahmed and attended by Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir, Bangladesh Road Transport Workers Federation president and lawmaker Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, and Narayanganj-3 lawmaker Azharul Islam Mannan.