The Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, spoke today about the road cameras that will soon be activated, through which drivers who violate the traffic code will receive their fine almost immediately on their mobile phone.

Speaking to Mega, he said:
“Regarding the cameras, the bill passes through Parliament’s plenary today. We are completing the legislation so that the unified monitoring system for the cameras is legal, and so we can begin procedures and tenders for installing the new cameras. The locations where the cameras will be placed will be announced. The goal is not to surprise anyone, but for citizens to know that the cameras are operating and that fines will be issued for violations like running a red light. Today’s discussion in Parliament focuses on data protection issues related to the cameras. The cameras will also record from the front so that the person driving is visible. The new cameras have approved AI algorithms, and the photo blurs the entire surroundings while leaving only the driver visible, so there is no doubt. A police officer issues the fine, ensuring the procedure is clear,” he noted.

On how quickly the fine will arrive:
“That was the core of the problem. We had cameras that didn’t work, we had a fragmented system, fines were sent to municipalities, and they had five years to confirm the fine and another five to collect it. At the moment you commit a violation, you’ll receive a message that you are being checked for a violation. A few hours later, once the police officer confirms it, the fine will appear in your wallet. You will also receive the photo on your phone so you can confirm that it was indeed you, or that a mistake occurred. Until now, we were searching for camera footage from bakeries and pharmacies to confirm violations. Cameras need to be installed in dangerous locations. These are cameras for KOK (traffic code) violations. Currently, we have about 30 on Attiki Odos and another 12 on bus lanes. However, the Attica Region has begun installing 388 cameras, and the tender for 2,500 more across Attica is starting. These are dual cameras—checking speed, seatbelt, helmet, red light, and other violations.”

On the new platform for checking alcohol sales to minors:
“The Health Ministry passed a bill in the summer with three main digital pillars. First, many entertainment venues were allowing minors inside, which is prohibited. We will create a platform where both the school and the entertainment venue must declare in advance whether there is a private event. The second platform concerns who sells alcohol or tobacco products. Those selling them must register so they can be monitored and traced. The third—and most important—is how to confirm a minor’s age. Children don’t carry regular ID cards. The ‘kids wallet’ is already online, but even in the regular wallet, someone can check whether a child is over or under 15.”