The Ministry of Interior has completed its preparations for enforcing the new traffic law, set to take effect on April 22. As part of these efforts, a public awareness campaign has been launched to educate motorists on the updated regulations and penalties.

According to Major Musaed Al-Aslawi, Head of the Traffic Awareness Department at the General Traffic Department, the latest traffic surveillance system includes artificial intelligence (AI) cameras, point-to-point speed monitoring systems, and mobile cameras. These advanced technologies are deployed at roundabouts, intersections, and internal and main roads to monitor various violations, particularly seatbelt use and mobile phone usage while driving.

1. Traffic Surveillance Cameras

• Total Units: 413
• Location: Intersections
• Functions:
  • Monitor traffic congestion and adjust signal timings
  • Detect mobile phone usage, failure to wear seatbelts, children sitting in the front seat, and lane violations

2. Fixed Traffic Enforcement Cameras

• Total Units: 421
• Location: Main and internal roads, intersections, and roundabouts
• Functions:
  • Monitor speeding and red signal violations

3. AI-Powered Traffic Cameras

• Total Units: 252
• Location: Most roads and internal areas
• Functions:
  • Detect seatbelt violations, mobile phone usage, children sitting in the front seat, and lane discipline issues

Captured footage from these traffic cameras undergoes a thorough review process before issuing fines. Once a violation is confirmed, a notification is sent to the violator via the Sahel application. Additionally, if multiple violations occur simultaneously, such as using a mobile phone while failing to wear a seatbelt, both infractions are recorded and included in the final penalty.

AI cameras specifically register seatbelt violations for both drivers and passengers, while mobile phone usage violations are only applied to drivers.

The Ministry of Interior aims to enhance road safety and traffic discipline by utilizing cutting-edge AI technology. With the new traffic law coming into effect, the traffic control system is expected to reduce violations and improve road conditions across Kuwait.