Nicosia to Install the First AI Cameras

A pilot project to install road cameras with artificial intelligence is beginning in the Republic of Cyprus. The first two cameras will appear in Nicosia on Griva Digeni Avenue, where they will replace the old devices that have already been taken out of service.

The new cameras will work only to detect one violation — using a mobile phone while driving. Using artificial intelligence algorithms, the system will determine whether the driver is holding a phone in their hands. After that, a police officer will review the video, and only if the violation is confirmed will a fine be issued.

According to the Traffic Police, using a mobile phone remains one of the main causes of fatal road accidents in Cyprus. Statistics show that about half of drivers who died were victims of crashes linked to inattention behind the wheel.

If the pilot project proves successful, similar cameras will be installed in other cities on the island. In addition, the authorities plan to use new technologies to monitor other types of traffic violations.

At the same time, the police continue to serve unpaid fines from speed cameras. There are currently about 360,000 outstanding fines in the country, more than 50,000 of which relate to the first year of the system’s operation. To address the problem, notifications to violators are also planned to be sent by SMS and email.