GEORGETOWN, Guyana — Speed cameras across Guyana have been upgraded to automatically detect and flag illegal third-lane driving, as authorities expand the use of technology to curb dangerous driving practices and ease persistent traffic congestion.
The new enforcement capability has been rolled out under the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) through a partnership between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA). Using enhanced video analytics, the system identifies vehicles that improperly use turning or inside lanes to bypass traffic, a manoeuvre that police say undermines road safety and traffic flow. High-definition footage capturing vehicle speed, lane position and license plate details will be used as evidentiary support for dangerous-driving charges.
The upgrade builds on the earlier nationwide deployment of speed cameras, which were introduced to address speeding, reckless driving and the rising number of serious road accidents. Since their introduction, authorities have said the cameras have improved compliance with speed limits, strengthened evidence-based enforcement and reduced the need for continuous roadside policing at major intersections and corridors.
However, officials noted that while speeding violations declined in several monitored areas, illegal third-lane driving remained a recurring complaint from commuters, particularly during peak hours. Motorists have repeatedly raised concerns about drivers abusing turning lanes to force their way ahead of traffic, leading to collisions, near-misses and worsening gridlock.
Police say the new SRIS upgrade directly addresses this gap by allowing officers to act on reliable, real-time evidence without having to be physically present at every location. The system currently monitors more than 100 traffic lanes nationwide, with additional sites scheduled to be activated in the coming months.
“This upgrade is another step toward a safer, more disciplined traffic environment,” Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh said. “Technology allows us to enforce fairly and effectively, while reducing congestion and improving the daily commute for thousands of Guyanese.”
The GPF said the expanded use of SRIS forms part of a broader national push to modernise traffic management through smart, data-driven systems, and urged motorists to observe lane markings, follow traffic laws and drive responsibly as enforcement capabilities continue to grow.