Councillors are pressing for a faster roll-out of smart traffic and security cameras in accident-prone areas across Bahrain, warning that reckless driving and dangerous speeding continue to put lives at risk.
The calls came as officials confirmed that new-generation traffic cameras are already being rolled out in phases, with more locations earmarked through to 2028.
In response to a proposal to install security and speed-monitoring cameras along Al Janabiya Highway (Roads 91, 92 and 93) extending to Salman City, the General Directorate of Traffic said the roads are already included in the new camera expansion project.
Deputy Director of the General Directorate of Traffic Brigadier Mohammed Al Darraj told the council in writing that two sites are scheduled for installlation in the second phase in 2027, while seven additional sites will be covered in the third phase in 2028.
“The roads mentioned are part of the comprehensive smart camera expansion plan,” he said. “The phased approach ensures proper technical preparation and integration with the national traffic monitoring system.”
The new smart cameras, which began operating this month in selected areas, use advanced detection technologies capable of monitoring speeding, lane violations, mobile phone use while driving and failure to wear seat-belts. Unlike older systems, they operate around the clock and can analyse multiple violations simultaneously, automatically linking offences to vehicle registration data.
Brigadier Al Darraj said the system represents a major step forward in traffic enforcement. “These smart cameras enhance continuous monitoring, record incidents accurately and contribute to reducing serious traffic violations,” he said. “They are part of a broader strategy to improve road safety and discipline.”
Brigadier Al Darraj emphasised that enforcement alone is not enough.
“Technology is a tool, but awareness and responsible driving remain essential,” he said. “The General Directorate of Traffic continues to combine enforcement, education and smart systems to ensure safer roads for everyone.”
Meanwhile, the Northern Municipal Council has also unanimously voted to install traffic and security cameras inside Roundabout 6 and Roundabout 14 tunnels on Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway in Hamad Town, following a proposal by West Hamad Town councillor Abdulla Al Thawadi.
Mr Al Thawadi said the highway has gained a dangerous reputation among motorists.
“This road is unfortunately known as a race track,” he said. “The normal speed may be around 120kmph, but during illegal racing it can reach 220kmph. That is extremely dangerous.”
He stressed that installing surveillance cameras inside the tunnels would strengthen monitoring of entry and exit points, ensure smoother traffic flow, detect congestion and record violations.
“Cameras will help in the immediate detection of accidents or fires, enhance public safety and reduce traffic accident rates,” he said. “We need constant monitoring to reinforce discipline among drivers.”
Councillor Mohammed Al Dossary echoed the call for urgency, saying that the benefits of the new smart cameras are already evident. “The installation process needs to be accelerated in high-risk areas,” he said. “The smart cameras that started operating this month have already helped curb offences and improve driver behaviour.”
Mr Al Dossary said expanding coverage would serve as both a deterrent and a protective measure. “When motorists know they are being monitored 24-hours-a-day, violations decrease,” he added. “This is about protecting lives before tragedy strikes.”
The proposals highlight growing concern over speeding and reckless driving in rapidly developing residential and highway zones, particularly as urban expansion increases traffic density.
With phased installations already underway and councillors pushing for faster implementation in identified hotspots, Bahrain’s roads may soon see a wider network of intelligent surveillance aimed at curbing dangerous driving and enhancing public safety.
In the meantime, readers are being urged to join the GDN Media Ramadan Road Safety Campaign by showing all motorists consideration on the roads, particularly on the drive home to breaking fast. Stay safe.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))