The Dubai Police are set to install 'silent radars' across residential neighborhoods. These new devices are termed 'silent' because they operate without the flashing lights typical of traditional radars.
Aims and Enforcement
The primary goal of these silent radars is to encourage safer driving practices beyond just monitoring speeding. They will also detect other traffic violations such as not wearing seatbelts and using mobile phones while driving. "Many residents might neglect these rules for short trips within their communities, but traffic laws apply everywhere," said a top official.
- Seatbelt Violations: Not wearing a seatbelt can result in a fine of Dh400 and 4 black points.
- Mobile Phone Usage: Using a hand-held phone while driving incurs a fine of Dh800 and 4 black points.
Ensuring Accuracy
Salma Mohammed Rashed Almarri, head of the Traffic Awareness section, emphasized that all behavioral fines are double-checked before issuance.
"Dubai Police officers always review video footage to confirm violations such as mobile phone usage and seatbelt compliance before finalizing fines,"
she said.
Advanced Traffic Monitoring
Hassan Ali Taleb Alhamer from the Traffic Technology Department clarified that Dubai's radars do more than just catch speeders.
"They can also detect illegal U-turns and other traffic infractions. Our roads are equipped with advanced traffic control technologies that monitor various violations,"
he explained.
These radars are capable of:
- Monitoring up to six main lanes and two side lanes on highways.
- Reading license plates, even if partially obscured.
- Detecting speeding and other violations, even if a vehicle is partially hidden by another.
Pedestrian Safety
Motorists are required to stop completely at pedestrian crossings until the pedestrian has fully crossed, with failure to do so resulting in a Dh500 fine.
Command and Control
Dubai's roads are monitored by large screens at the Dubai Police Command Control Centre. Major Mohammed Shahriyar Alblooshi, assistant director of the Command Control Centre, explained:
"We can monitor traffic conditions in real-time and dispatch patrols to manage incidents and assist drivers."
Captain Majid Al Qassim, head of specialized operations, added:
"We oversee all roads from this room. In case of emergencies, we have multiple assets like ambulances and patrols ready to be dispatched quickly."
Safety and Awareness
The Dubai Police Awareness Department has been educating drivers on maintaining safe following distances, with fines of up to Dh400 for violations. The overarching goal of these advanced systems is to enhance road safety rather than merely issuing fines.
While some drivers slow down near known radar locations, the Dubai Police aim to ensure consistent and safe driving speeds across the city.
"Our priority is road safety for all,"
the police emphasized.
News Source: Khaleej Times
