More than 35,000 speeding tickets have been issued to motorists during the first half of this year, while fines collected through the Smart Intelligence Traffic System have surpassed $200 million since the system was rolled out.

The figures come as authorities continue to expand the use of speed cameras across the country, with Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh saying the technology has strengthened the Traffic Department's ability to detect speeding offences remotely.

Speaking to Ignite News, Singh explained that motorists are given multiple opportunities to become aware of tickets issued in their name.

He said beyond the initial text message and electronic notification, authorities also use registered post and an online system where motorists can check unpaid tickets.

The Traffic Chief, however, said some motorists continue to make excuses even after being presented with evidence of their violations.

Singh stressed that the Traffic Department is not targeting anyone unfairly, but carrying out its responsibility to enforce the law.
"They still make excuses.

We're not here for the excuses part, and we're not here to prejudice the public either. We are from the same public. You have a couple of choices, you either pay your tickets or we proceed by way of action through the courts," Singh said.

He said while some persons accept responsibility, others attempt to use their influence or connections to avoid facing the consequences of their actions.

Singh said during his interactions with members of the public, including persons working in professional fields, he has encountered motorists who indicated they would seek outside intervention to have prosecution dropped.

"I can't believe that they have absolutely no remorse for the actions they took. They were willing to say they are not going to pay the tickets and they are going to approach person or persons to cause us to forego prosecution. I wish them well; I'd rather be removed than not do my work," Singh said.

The Traffic Chief said speeding offences are not limited to one group, noting that businesspersons, young professionals, commercial drivers and members of the joint services have all contributed to speeding violations.

He maintained that when road crashes occur, a person's status or position does not matter.

Singh added that the Smart Intelligence Traffic System has helped reduce accidents in areas where it has been implemented, as authorities continue to expand the technology nationwide.