AI-powered traffic cameras installed on major roads across the Athens metropolitan area are currently recording violations but not issuing fines, as most of the systems remain in a pilot phase, authorities say.
So far, only conventional traffic police cameras — both fixed and mobile — are fully operational for enforcement. These include 17 cameras on a major toll highway around Athens and 12 cameras monitoring bus lanes, all managed by traffic police.
In contrast, eight artificial intelligence cameras installed at six locations by the Ministry of Digital Governance are operating on a trial basis. While they have already logged thousands of violations, they are not connected to a ticketing system and do not generate citations. Officials are evaluating their performance before launching a tender to procure up to 2,000 smart cameras in the future.
According to police sources, no police department has received or processed violations from the AI cameras so far, and police are not currently involved in their operation. Authorities plan to fully automate the process once a unified digital backend system is completed.
The AI cameras can detect a range of violations, including mobile phone use while driving, failure to wear a seat belt, running red lights, and speeding. However, during the pilot stage, their role is limited to data collection and assessment.
Separately, a large regional project is underway to install 388 cameras at 100 key traffic points across the wider Athens area. These cameras will provide 24/7 monitoring and can capture five photos and video footage even in low-light conditions.
To address privacy concerns, the system will record only the rear of vehicles. The footage will be transmitted electronically through a secure network exclusively to police authorities.
Installation has begun in central Athens, the northern and southern suburbs, western districts, and the port city of Piraeus, with additional cameras planned for many other neighborhoods. Once completed, the network is expected to cover most of the Athens metropolitan area.
