Several AI traffic cameras fitted on main routes in Athens have recorded thousands of traffic violations since their installation in December 2025.

Over 10,000 infringements related to seatbelts and the use of mobile phones were recorded between December 25 and January 28th on Syngrou Avenue alone, while over 1,500 speed violations were also documented, according to initial data.

Alarmingly, in downtown Athens, violations of running red lights were nearly 2,000 in only three weeks, while 32,000 were also related to violating pedestrian crossings.

The “smart” cameras automatically detect a wide range of traffic violations, including running red lights, speeding, driving in bus-only lanes and emergency lanes, using a mobile phone while driving, failure to wear a seat belt or helmet, as well as illegal stopping and parking.

In contrast to older CCTV systems, which would only record violations, the new AI cameras analyze footage in real time using deep learning algorithms.

The AI-powered traffic cameras operate using real-time video analysis, allowing the system not merely to record footage but to interpret what it sees by identifying people, vehicles and objects. Using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR), the cameras detect and log vehicle registration numbers, while trained algorithms identify violations such as speeding, running red lights, driving in emergency or bus-only lanes, using a mobile phone while driving, and failing to wear a seat belt or helmet.

Once a violation is detected, the process is fully automated: the camera zooms in, captures photographic or video evidence and digitally transmits the data for the issuance of a traffic ticket through the government’s gov.gr platform. In many locations, a dual-camera system is used, with front and rear cameras ensuring accurate driver identification.

During the initial rollout, the system is being trained by collecting data to improve accuracy. At the next stage, violations will be automatically certified and digitally delivered to drivers via their personal government inbox on gov.gr.

The pilot phase is expected to run at least until early March, after which the cameras are set to be connected to the new Unified Electronic System for Recording and Managing Traffic Violations, overseen by the Ministry of Digital Governance. Through this system, traffic fines will be served electronically, paid digitally, and automatically recorded in drivers’ penalty point records. Driving licences will be suspended digitally without the physical seizure of vehicles, while unpaid fines after eight months will be forwarded to the tax authority for collection.