The Dhaka Metropolitan Police's (DMP) Traffic Division has started installing 1,000 plug-and-play cameras across the capital to improve road discipline and monitor traffic violations.

The installation work has already begun on 300-feet Road, also known as the 36 July Expressway, DMP Traffic Additional Commissioner Md Anisur Rahman said today (28 July).

He added that police have chosen the plug-and-play system because AI-powered cameras are expensive, adding that the new system will help cover more locations quickly within the available budget.

"The cameras will record video footage through built-in cards. Traffic officials will later review the footage and file cases against people who break traffic rules," he said.

According to the DMP plan, officials will gradually install around 1,000 such cameras at key points across Dhaka. 

At present, 37 AI-enabled cameras are operating at 16 locations, he said, adding that authorities are managing them effectively.

The DMP officer also said 13 intersections currently use semi-automatic traffic signal systems. 

However, officials cannot keep all systems active at all times due to technical faults, heavy rain and other unexpected situations, he added.

He said managing motorised and non-motorised vehicles on the same roads remains challenging. 

In some cases, authorities have to suspend signal operations to manage traffic flow, the senior police officer stated.

The DMP is also preparing to launch 50 more traffic signals in the Dhaka North City Corporation area soon, he added.

On road noise pollution, the DMP additional commissioner said unnecessary use of vehicle sirens, including by ambulances, has become a serious concern. 

He warned that excessive noise is harming traffic police officers' hearing and causing health problems such as lung issues, mental stress, headaches and back pain.

"Saving this city requires collective responsibility," he said, adding that authorities are continuing drives against illegal sirens, hydraulic horns and unauthorised lights.

He said rule-breaking remains common and urged people to become more aware to help restore discipline on the roads.

Meanwhile, Traffic Tejgaon Division has introduced changes at Mohammadpur bus stand to reduce congestion.

Authorities removed a road divider on the Dhanmondi-Bosila route near the bus stand and reduced the number of traffic signals from three to two.

DMP Deputy Commissioner (Traffic) Md Rafiqul Islam said the changes aim to ease long-standing traffic problems in the area.

He said officials removed the road island and adjusted the signal system by removing one signal. 

Vehicles coming from western Dhanmondi will no longer take a right turn at the location, he said. 

Instead, they will move straight, take a U-turn in front of Mayur Villa and enter the Asad Gate area, he added.

The officer said removing one signal will reduce waiting time and allow vehicles to move continuously.

Additional Commissioner Anisur said the changes at Mohammadpur bus stand will reduce public suffering. 

He added that although the road has limited capacity, the heavy volume of vehicles requires better use of available space to improve traffic movement.