AI cameras to catch mobile phone, seatbelt violations in Oman: ROP

Muscat: The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has begun deploying AI-powered smart systems to monitor traffic violations, particularly mobile phone use while driving and failure to wear seatbelts.

The initiative is part of the ROP’s broader strategy to enhance road safety and reduce traffic accidents by leveraging cutting-edge technologies that influence driver behaviour.

“These systems use advanced monitoring methods and artificial intelligence to detect violations without the need for human intervention,” said Brigadier Eng. Ali bin Sulayem Al Falahi, Director-General of Traffic at Oman Police.

The smart cameras and monitoring tools are installed at key traffic points, including signalised intersections, and are designed to automatically flag and document risky driver behaviour.

According to Brig. Al Falahi, the most common traffic violations in Oman include:

• Speeding

• Running red lights

• Not wearing seatbelts

• Using mobile phones while driving

The new AI systems can detect these violations in real time, enhancing the ROP’s ability to enforce traffic laws swiftly and effectively. Repeat offenders face strict penalties under the traffic points system, including:

• Temporary licence suspension

• Mandatory driving courses

• Vehicle impoundment

• In severe cases, permanent licence cancellation

Distracted driving: A growing concern

The crackdown on distracted driving comes amid rising global concerns. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), distracted driving — particularly from mobile phone use — poses one of the greatest modern threats to road safety.

"Using a mobile phone while driving increases crash risk by approximately four times, whether it's handheld or hands-free," the WHO report states. The real danger lies in cognitive distraction, not just holding the device.

Texting is considered even more dangerous, severely impairing driver reaction time and attention.

Globally, 1.19 million people die annually due to road traffic crashes, with 20 to 50 million suffering non-fatal injuries. These crashes account for up to 3% of GDP losses in many countries, due to treatment costs and lost productivity.

The ROP’s new AI initiative aims to combat these trends in Oman by creating safer roads through proactive deterrence and technology-driven enforcement.

-- Fahad Al Mukrashi is a freelance journalist based in Oman