Advanced hawk-eye cameras could be installed on Bahrain’s roads to tackle violations, including jumping red lights, speeding, unauthorised use of the emergency lane and reckless driving.
The Northern Municipal Council has approved a modified proposal that expands the initial focus of the project to encompass the entire country in a major step to improve road safety.
The new proposal was spearheaded by council vice-chairwoman Zaina Jassim, who emphasised the need for a holistic approach to road safety.
“Our roads are becoming increasingly dangerous due to reckless behaviour and it’s time we take a firm stand,” she said.
“Installing hi-tech cameras across the country will not only help enforce traffic laws, but also serve as a deterrent to those who believe they can violate them without consequences.”
The council’s decision follows growing concerns over accidents and fatalities in Bahrain that have resulted in calls for stricter enforcement measures from citizens and residents.
The GDN reported last April that 30 men and three females (all drivers) died in road accidents in Bahrain in 2023, according to the traffic statistics.
Comparatively, 42 men and five females died in 44 traffic accidents in 2022. Of the fatalities, 27 were drivers, seven were passengers and 13 were pedestrians.
In addition, 236 male drivers sustained serious injuries in road accidents in 2023 compared to 45 females.
Ms Jassim noted that the hawk-eye cameras would play a crucial role in saving lives and ensuring that the roads are safe for all users. These cameras, widely used in sports, can track and record movements of vehicles at high speeds, across several lanes, and transmit data instantaneously, allowing police to monitor and analyse traffic violations.
“Every driver, passenger and pedestrian deserves to feel secure while using Bahrain’s roads,” she said.
The council has called for the strategic installation of the proposed cameras at critical junctions, highways, and accident-prone areas.
In addition to recording offences, the cameras will also provide authorities with valuable data to identify trends and implement targeted interventions.
The original proposal, introduced by A’ali and Ramli area councillor Abdulla Ashoor, focused solely on installing speed cameras on Shaikh Zayed Highway and the adjacent Avenue 12. However, during council discussions yesterday, it was agreed that a broader approach was necessary to tackle a wider range of traffic offences.
Mr Ashoor expressed his support for the modified proposal, highlighting its potential to enhance road safety on a national scale.
“My initial proposal targeted speeding, which is a major issue in certain areas like A’ali and Ramli, notably on Shaikh Zayed Highway and the adjacent Avenue 12,” he explained.
“But the council’s decision to expand the scope makes perfect sense. Reckless driving is a countrywide problem and addressing it comprehensively will have a greater impact.”
Mr Ashoor said the initiative is not intended as a punitive measure but rather as a preventive one.
“Our aim is not to penalise drivers unnecessarily but to encourage responsible behaviour on roads,” he added.
“When people know they are being monitored, they are more likely to follow the rules.”
The proposal will now be forwarded to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak to refer to Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa for review.
Gen Shaikh Rashid revealed in November last year that the number of registered vehicles in Bahrain had risen, with approximately 676,137 vehicles on the road.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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