Commuters Beware! The Roads and Transport Authority has installed CCTV cameras in taxis as part of a pilot project to monitor the performance of drivers and for general security.
The pilot phase is expected to last a few months and during this period feedback will be taken from drivers and passengers. The RTA is yet to decide if all taxis in Dubai, including those operated by franchises, will have the cameras.
Each taxi has been equipped with three tiny cameras, one installed near the centre mirror of the vehicle, covering only the driver, while the other two are set up at the front and rear of the taxi, externally.
The CCTV cameras will provide feed to the RTA’s control center and will help RTA monitor the performance of drivers and is for “general security”.
Abdullah Yousuf Al Ali, CEO, Public Transport Agency, RTA, said: “The installation of cameras in taxis is a project under trial. The project has been ongoing over the past six months. Until now a few taxis have been equipped and we are testing the system with different types of cameras to get the best results. Each taxi includes three CCTVs, one on the driver only [not covering passengers] and the other two for rear and front [outside the vehicle].”
Interesting, Mr Al Ali observed just two years ago that CCTV cameras in Dubai Taxis are not required.
Abu Dhabi taxis have the CCTV cameras installed since last year.
Image: Gulf News
More about Dubai ...
Careem to offer on demand Dubai Taxis
Makani enabled on 4,500 Dubai taxis
Dubai Taxis to have CCTV Cameras to watch the Drivers- Taxis taken in malls are expensive as call centre charges apply
Dubai taxi fares increased again within 12 months- RTA drops the price bomb: Dubai Taxis will be more expensive now
Aunik, RTA and NETS launch dedicated Dubai Taxis for hospitals- Dubai taxis to accept Nol card, debit and card payments
- Dubai Taxis to have sensor driven automatic meters soon
Dubai Taxi expands with 500 vehicles