Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is planning to install surveillance cameras in all of the Taxis in Dubai for increased safety of passengers and finding proofs in case of disputes, Gulf News reported. The process of camera installation in 9,500 taxis will be completed in phases over a period of one year.
Each Dubai taxi will feature 3 surveillance cameras; one camera will be installed at the central mirror of the vehicle to keep an eye on the taxi driver. The other 2 cameras will be at the front and back of the taxi. Both of these cameras will be installed externally, not inside the taxi. None of the 3 cameras will show the passengers.
The surveillance system will help find proofs of disputes between the passengers and the taxi drivers. The driver will be able to prove their innocence for false accusations. The system will also improve the security of passengers by monitoring taxi drivers taking the necessary steps for passenger’s comfort.
The cameras will not render live feed in the initial stage. They will be linked to operation command center (OCC) of the Public Transport Agency that can download the footage and take the necessary actions whenever they feel like.
Tourists come and go all around the year here and taxis are the main source of transport for many. In most cases, it is even cheaper than Uber. This step by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will ensure the comfort and security of passengers and taxi drivers.