Traffic Cameras to Detect More Violations Starting March 12

Starting March 12, automated traffic enforcement cameras in Kazakhstan will gain significantly expanded capabilities to detect violations. The changes are part of amendments to the Administrative Offenses Code enacted under the "Digital Code" initiative.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs emphasizes that the amendments do not introduce new traffic rules or prohibitions. Instead, they broaden the technical means for identifying violations that already exist but were previously only detectable by police officers during direct observation.

Previously, automated systems were limited to recording six specific offenses: speeding, running a red light, ignoring road signs and markings, illegal parking or stopping, improper overtaking or lane positioning, and failing to yield to pedestrians.

The updated legislation now provides for three primary methods of automated enforcement. First, traditional cameras will continue to monitor the aforementioned six violations. Second, new-generation cameras will be able to detect additional infractions that do not require special measurements. This includes using a mobile phone while driving and not wearing a seatbelt.

The third method involves integrating data from state databases with the Unified Register of Administrative Offenses (ERAP). This integration will allow for the automatic detection of document-related violations, such as driving with an expired vehicle inspection certificate, lacking valid insurance, or operating a vehicle with an expired weapon storage permit.

Furthermore, the system will now be authorized to issue automatic warnings for certain offenses where a warning is the prescribed penalty by law. Previously, this required manual processing by a police officer. Violations eligible for automated warnings include causing traffic congestion and improper use of external lighting devices.

A senior inspector from the MVD's Administrative Police Committee clarified that rumors about cameras being used to penalize pedestrians are false. "Information circulating in some media that automatic fixation cameras will allegedly hold pedestrians accountable does not correspond to reality," stated Akboty Boranova. "These systems are intended exclusively for detecting traffic violations by vehicles."

The overarching goal of these changes is to enhance public and road safety through digital solutions. Authorities state that automating the detection process aims to prevent dangerous behavior more efficiently and reduce the risk of serious accidents.