Concerns circulating on social media alleging that artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled traffic surveillance cameras at two key intersections in Dhaka had been shut down have been firmly dismissed by the authorities, who confirm that the system remains fully operational.
Recent posts and photo cards claimed that AI-based traffic monitoring systems installed at Karwan Bazar and Banglamotor had ceased functioning, sparking widespread confusion among the public. Some users further suggested that the shutdown reflected a broader suspension of modern traffic enforcement technology in the capital.
However, the Traffic Division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has clarified that these claims are inaccurate. Officials emphasised that all AI-enabled cameras installed across major junctions in Dhaka are currently active and being used continuously for traffic monitoring, enforcement, and digital prosecution.
According to police sources, the confusion originated from a temporary technical disruption rather than any administrative or policy-level decision to suspend operations.
Temporary technical interruption clarified
Officials explained that during maintenance work on electrical and communication infrastructure in the Karwan Bazar area, a cable linked to the AI camera system was accidentally disconnected. This resulted in a short-term interruption of services lasting approximately two days. The issue was subsequently identified and resolved, and full functionality was restored after prompt technical intervention.
A similar misunderstanding spread online suggesting that the Banglamotor system had also been deactivated. Authorities have confirmed that this was not the case, and normal operations were maintained following routine checks.
Official clarification
Speaking to the media, Additional Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Traffic Division, Anisur Rahman, stated that the disruption was purely accidental and caused by cable damage during electrical maintenance work.
He further confirmed that all systems were restored immediately after repairs, and no decision had been taken to deactivate or suspend the AI-based monitoring network.
He also rejected allegations circulating on social media that traffic personnel were manually disabling cameras for misconduct. According to him, such claims are baseless, and strict disciplinary action would be taken against any officer found guilty of wrongdoing, provided credible evidence is submitted.
Role of AI in traffic enforcement
Authorities highlighted that AI-powered surveillance cameras have become a crucial component of Dhaka’s traffic management strategy. These systems automatically detect violations such as red-light running, illegal lane changes, wrong-way driving, and failure to stop at designated lines.
Once a violation is detected, the system generates digital evidence that is used for automated fines and enforcement notices, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving overall compliance on the roads.
Summary of incident
| Issue |
Location |
Cause |
Duration |
Resolution |
| Temporary AI camera disruption |
Karwan Bazar |
Accidental cable disconnection during maintenance |
~2 days |
Restored after repair and reconnection |
| Misreporting on social media |
Banglamotor & Karwan Bazar |
Misinformation and speculation |
Ongoing online confusion |
Official clarification issued |
Continued deployment
Officials reaffirmed that the AI traffic surveillance system across Dhaka remains fully functional and is being expanded and maintained regularly. They added that the integration of smart monitoring technology has significantly improved discipline on the roads, as drivers are increasingly compelled to comply with traffic regulations due to the presence of automated enforcement mechanisms.
The authorities concluded by urging the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that may create unnecessary confusion.
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