AI cameras should serve more than just issuing fines, readers say

Hoangbichthuy says in response to the traffic police department’s proposal to install thousands of these cameras nationwide: "I hope the traffic police use the technology for more than just issuing fines. For example, cameras could warn about accidents or landslides ahead so drivers can avoid danger."

The system is designed to record vehicle flow and detect 20 common violations like running red lights, not wearing helmets and not fastening seatbelts.

"Images and videos with route, time and violation details are matched with the national vehicle registration database before police review and issue fines.

Cameras monitoring a street in Vietnam. Photo by VnExpress/Viet An

Phamsinh points to South Korea as an example of how AI cameras can be used.

"AI cameras are integrated into apps in South Korea. People can check the weather and traffic conditions in their area to choose the best route. It will be very useful if Vietnam can integrate our camera system in the same way."

Trantoe fears AI cameras will not be effective without proper traffic regulation.

"Authorities need to review and analyze demand on each street to redirect traffic flow and arrange parking spaces. Hanoi’s roads are not too narrow but poor management can lead to disorder, illegal parking and congestion."

Lethienquoc supports the proposal but says the fines for traffic violations should be more reasonable. "Current traffic fines are too high compared with people’s incomes. Minor violations caused by obscured traffic signs, unclear markings or faulty traffic lights should receive warnings first, with fines increasing for repeat offenses."

Car drivers jumping red lights and driving in the wrong direction on one-way streets will be fined VND18-20 million (US$707-785) starting Jan. 1.
Failing to comply with traffic controllers' orders and instructions will also attract the same amount of fine, according to a new decree.

Fines for other violations will also increase sharply, with those for endangering traffic safety and causing accidents by opening their doors going up from VND400,000-600,000 to VND20-22 million.