Over 1,000 New Traffic Cameras to be Installed in Athens

One thousand new traffic cameras are soon expected around Attica to monitor crime and particularly traffic violations, Citizen Protection Minister Michalis Chrisochoidis told TO VIMA.

Attica Region Governor Nikos Hardalias, also communicated plans for installing another 800 cameras across the Attica prefecture. The Minister of Citizen Protection is expected to outline all the details regarding the cameras’ installation and operation in the coming days.

It has been reported that the traffic cameras in particular will be equipped with software to automatically fine drivers for traffic violations. The software will detect the personal information of the vehicle owner and then send the fine through the government gov.gr portal, or, in instances of more serious violations, add points to the Driver Behavior Monitoring System. The cameras are expected to be installed on major avenues and thoroughfares such as Mesogeion Ave., Kifissos Ave., Alexandras Ave., Syngrou Ave., and Vasilissis Sophias Ave.

The installation of the traffic cameras is intended to aid in reducing the incredibly high level of motor vehicle accidents in the city. Greece records incredibly high levels of traffic accidents, having the fourth-highest fatality rate in Europe.

The parliament is also engaging in ongoing discussion of a new traffic code, which will likely have stricter regulations, and higher penalties for violations such as running red lights and inebriated driving, as another way to target accidents.