Opinions on video speed monitoring vary among Dhaka residents
Starting on February 21st, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) will implement a video-based monitoring system to enforce speed limits on the Dhaka Elevated Expressway. Currently, the speed limits are set at 60 kmph on the main road and 40 kmph on ramps, with discussions on raising these limits to 80 kmph to align with the expressway’s layout. This development has elicited a spectrum of reactions from the public, with some viewing it as a necessary safety measure and others expressing reservations about its efficacy and fairness.
Various individuals have shared their perspectives on the matter. One university student, Sharmin Akhter, acknowledged the positive intention behind the initiative but raised concerns about potential issues related to the equitable enforcement of penalties and the reliability of video evidence. Similarly, a banker named Habib Ullah emphasized the importance of consistent enforcement practices and stressed the need for transparent procedures, reasonable fines, and comprehensive public communication to promote road safety.
On the other hand, a teacher named Farzana Khan Chowdhury highlighted the significance of speed regulation for ensuring safe travel, while advocating for transparency in monitoring procedures. Dr. Mahmud Reza, a pediatric surgeon, underscored the lifesaving potential of strict speed limits while emphasizing the importance of coupling enforcement efforts with educational campaigns to enhance driver awareness about expressway safety practices. Similarly, a consultant named Nazmun Nahar expressed optimism about the viability of the new monitoring system while cautioning against the possibility of technological errors leading to inaccuracies in penalty enforcement.
Furthermore, an attorney named Aminul Islam praised the introduction of video-based cases as a means of fostering accountability but stressed the necessity of robust legal mechanisms that allow drivers to contest fines in cases of dispute. These varied perspectives underscore the nuanced considerations surrounding the implementation of video speed monitoring on the expressway and the importance of ensuring fairness, transparency, and efficiency in enforcement procedures.
As the discussions unfold, it is apparent that while advancements in technology offer promising opportunities for enhancing road safety measures, addressing concerns related to consistency, fairness, and accountability remains paramount. The integration of modern surveillance systems must be accompanied by clear legal frameworks, educational initiatives, and mechanisms for addressing grievances to cultivate a culture of responsible and safe driving practices among motorists using the expressway. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will rely on the collaborative efforts of law enforcement authorities, policymakers, and the public to uphold the principles of safety, equity, and efficiency in managing speed violations on the Dhaka Elevated Expressway.