Athens, February 10 – New AI-powered traffic cameras have been installed on major roads across the Athens metropolitan area. These cameras are currently recording thousands of violations as part of a pilot phase, but authorities have confirmed that no fines are being issued at this stage, as the systems are still under evaluation.
Pilot Phase Underway: Data Collection, Not Fines
While these advanced AI cameras are actively monitoring and documenting traffic infractions, their primary role during this initial phase is data collection and assessment. Unlike conventional traffic police cameras, which are fully operational for enforcement, the new AI systems are not yet connected to a ticketing system.
Currently, only existing traffic police cameras, including 17 on a major toll highway around Athens and 12 monitoring bus lanes, are issuing citations. These are managed directly by traffic police.
Ministry of Digital Governance Leads the Initiative
Eight artificial intelligence cameras, installed at six locations by the Ministry of Digital Governance, are operating on a trial basis. Despite having already logged thousands of violations, these cameras do not generate citations. Officials are evaluating their performance ahead of a future tender to procure up to 2,000 additional smart cameras.
Police sources have confirmed that no police department has received or processed violations from the AI cameras, nor are they currently involved in their operation. The full automation of the process is planned once a unified digital backend system is completed.
Advanced Capabilities and Privacy Considerations
The AI cameras are designed to detect a wide range of violations, including:
- Mobile phone use while driving
- Failure to wear a seat belt
- Running red lights
- Speeding
To address privacy concerns, the system is designed to record only the rear of vehicles. The footage will be transmitted electronically through a secure network exclusively to police authorities.
Regional Expansion: 388 Cameras Across Athens
In parallel with the AI camera pilot, a large regional project is underway to install 388 cameras at 100 key traffic points across the wider Athens area. These cameras will provide 24/7 monitoring and are capable of capturing five photos and video footage even in low-light conditions.
Installation has already begun in central Athens, the northern and southern suburbs, western districts, and the port city of Piraeus. Additional cameras are planned for many other neighborhoods, with the goal of covering most of the Athens metropolitan area once completed.
Future Outlook: Enhanced Traffic Enforcement
The deployment of these AI-powered cameras marks a significant step towards modernizing traffic enforcement in Athens. While the current focus is on evaluation and data collection, the long-term plan is to achieve full automation, leading to a more efficient and effective system for monitoring road safety and compliance.
This initiative is expected to contribute to a reduction in traffic violations and an improvement in overall road safety once the systems are fully integrated and operational for enforcement.
