Traffic light monitoring system expected in May

The first and second phases of the installation of a new traffic light monitoring system are expected to be complete by the end of May, the transport ministry said on Tuesday.

According to an announcement by the ministry’s electromechanical services, the first phase will see 20 mobile and 24 fixed cameras placed in seven locations.

“The fixed cameras have been installed in five intersections in Nicosia and two in Limassol, while with the completion of the second phase, the total number of fixed and mobile cameras will reach a total of 20 mobile and 90 fixed cameras in 30 locations,” it added.

The announcement explained that the cameras will automatically detect and record red traffic light violations and stop line and speed violations.

Through photos taken, the system is also able to detect violations such as not wearing a helmet or seat belt, and using a mobile phone.

“The system is one of the most basic and important tools for creating appropriate road behaviour and enforcing the road traffic code,” the announcement said.

The ministry stressed that there are no incentives for the contractor operating the system to increase the number of violations recorded, as their payment will not be based on that, but on hours worked.

At the same time, locations and times of placement of mobile cameras are to be decided by the police with the preparation of a monthly schedule, which should be faithfully followed, it added.

According to the instructions, the cameras should be positioned so that, where possible, they are clearly visible to drivers, in order to reduce speed and therefore reduce road collisions.

This is also the reason why warning signs are placed before the checkpoint, while vehicles have relevant markings that can be recognised by drivers.

The announcement said that the police will announce when the fixed cameras are set to start operating.

Finally, it said that the areas where cameras have been installed, or are being installed, were selected after a study deemed them dangerous or blind spots conducive to serious collisions.