Car enthusiasts in Almaty have noticed new, larger cameras on the roads, sparking speculation about their enhanced functionality. Details about these new cameras were investigated.
The press service of Sergek Group announced in early March that these are indeed a new type of camera currently in a testing phase. The specialized transport camera boasts higher resolution and a polarization filter to combat glare on glass, allowing for higher-resolution images even in low-light conditions. Similar equipment has been tested in Astana, Aktau, and Ust-Kamenogorsk.
In response to inquiries, the Almaty Traffic Police stated that in addition to detecting previously listed violations, these cameras can identify drivers not wearing seat belts and vehicles not yielding to pedestrians. However, the cameras are currently in a testing phase and do not issue fines to violators.
On December 19, 2023, it was reported that Almaty is implementing a pilot project to capture vehicles failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. The Almaty mayor announced on March 15 that around 10,000 surveillance cameras will be installed in the city in 2024.