Balinese traffic police are implementing a new system that monitors driver behavior in real-time.
Bali’s traffic police chief, Commissioner Turmudi, announced that the system is connected to CCTV cameras, the Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system, accident databases, and public complaints. Once fully operational, officers will be able to instantly record the most frequent violations: riding without a helmet, driving against traffic, dangerous maneuvering, and aggressive driving. The project is called Backoffice Smart Road Safety Policing and directly targets the 'Bali style' of some expats who consider it normal to ride a bike wearing headphones and flip-flops.
Turmudi believes that Smart Road Safety Policing will noticeably improve traffic safety and driving culture on the island.
Another function of the system is to identify the most dangerous road sections in Bali. A separate map will compile data on locations with frequent accidents, areas of mass violations, popular tourist routes, road conditions, and potential hazards. This unified map will be accessible to all relevant agencies, making accident prevention and response to dangerous situations faster, more precise, and less dependent on human factors.
Authorities are taking a systematic approach to automating control; several years ago, a system of road cameras capable of automatically issuing fines for numerous violations was introduced on the island. Police officers also received cameras to record violations.
Besides improving road safety, these measures significantly reduce one of the main problems in many Asian countries – corruption. Currently, Balinese police officers are not permitted to fine offending drivers on the spot; they can only issue a ticket. At least, that’s how they should act according to protocol.
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