AI Radar Fines Spark Outcry in Türkiye, Government Considers Reforms

During the Kurban Bayram holiday, millions of drivers across Türkiye voiced frustration over a surge in traffic fines issued by newly deployed AI-powered radar systems. The abrupt and frequent issuance of penalties has led to widespread backlash, prompting the government to consider reviewing the system.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced that a special commission would evaluate the AI radar program, addressing concerns that speed limits drop suddenly and unfairly in certain highway zones. He acknowledged that radars were placed in areas where drivers could not easily detect changes, particularly where limits drop from 120 km/h to 70, 50, or even 30 km/h in seconds.

Parliament to Vote on Traffic Safety Bill

The Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) is preparing to vote next week on a new road safety action plan, which aims to reduce traffic accidents. The plan includes increased monetary penalties for speeding violations, which have already become a subject of public debate.

Public anger surged during the holiday period as radar enforcement reportedly intensified, and some road signs indicating speed limits were inconsistent or hidden. While the government has justified the changes as safety-driven, critics — including some voices within the AKP ruling party — argue the implementation appears more focused on revenue collection than deterrence.

Road Signage and Radar Placement Under Review

The AI radar devices, developed by Radarsan, are capable of real-time speed monitoring and fine drivers within minutes of violations. However, their placement on roads with rapidly shifting speed zones has led to confusion and frustration.

Minister Yerlikaya confirmed that speed limit signage would be reassessed nationwide, with a focus on ensuring drivers are not unfairly penalized due to sudden speed drops or lack of proper warnings.

Will Holiday Radar Fines Be Cancelled?

Amid growing speculation about whether fines issued during the Kurban Bayram would be revoked, AKP Parliamentary Group Chair Abdullah Güler responded directly.

He emphasized that although current fines are relatively low and lack deterrence, they will be increased under the new legislation. However, he dismissed the notion that public backlash was solely due to high fines.

“The complaints are more about excessive radar enforcement and sudden speed reductions, especially in residential zones,” Güler said.
“A commission including the Interior and Transport Ministries is now evaluating where and how radar systems are being deployed. We’ll see what comes of it.”

For now, the cancellation of previously issued fines remains off the table, but legislative reforms and better implementation are expected to follow.