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Dhaka’s two busiest corridors—the Dhaka–Chattogram and Dhaka–Mawa highways—are now under expanded AI-powered surveillance, marking a major step in the government’s “zero tolerance” drive against crime and narcotics.
Additional Inspector General of Highway Police Faruk Ahmed said the entire Dhaka–Chattogram Highway is now covered by CCTV, with 16 critical points monitored through advanced AI cameras.
Similar surveillance has been introduced along the Dhaka–Mawa route, enabling centralized, real-time monitoring of both highways.
The AI cameras, installed at strategic locations under a Road Transport and Bridges Ministry project, are expected to significantly strengthen efforts to prevent robberies, drug trafficking, and other highway crimes. Although the system is already operational, a formal inauguration of the Dhaka–Chattogram network is expected soon.
Authorities are also preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding that will officially hand over control of the AI surveillance system to the Highway Police, which has so far been operating it informally.
Officials say the integration of artificial intelligence will enhance operational efficiency, improve transparency, and enable faster, data-driven responses to incidents.
Plans are underway to extend similar surveillance coverage to highways nationwide, aiming to curb crime while easing chronic traffic congestion.
Faruk Ahmed, who assumed charge earlier this month, has pledged to eliminate extortion and harassment on highways within two months. He also assured that allegations of illegal toll collection by police personnel would be addressed decisively.
The Highway Police, a specialized unit of Bangladesh Police, currently oversees more than 11,800 kilometres of highways through 73 stations nationwide. Despite manpower constraints, the force is working to expand its capacity and adopt modern technology to ensure safer, more efficient road travel.
Officials believe that combining AI surveillance, accountability measures, and community engagement will help create a safer and more disciplined highway system across the country.