Fines from cameras over the past 4 months may be fully canceled

The Minister of Public Works and Transport of Northern Cyprus, Erhan Arıklı, announced the preparation of an official proposal to the Council of Ministers to cancel all fines recorded by traffic cameras over the past four months.

According to the minister, the camera system launch was accompanied by serious technical and organizational shortcomings. In many locations, warning road signs were missing, camera lights were not functioning, and the explanatory campaign for drivers was insufficient.

"Citizens are rightfully complaining. Cameras were installed but were not properly marked. People thought they were faulty. Therefore, we consider it correct to close this period and start with a clean slate," Arıklı noted.

The minister also reported that large-scale changes to the traffic fine system are being prepared in parallel:

• In cities on roads with a 50 km/h limit, some violations (using a phone, eating, or smoking while driving) will no longer be automatically fined.
• On highways and high-speed roads, strict enforcement will remain — speeding, dangerous driving, and alcohol will continue to be police priorities.
• A phased (kedemli) fine system is being introduced:
  
  • first violation — 30% of the amount,
  • second — 50%,
  • third — 100%.

Separately, Arıklı reminded of the issue with dangerous Takata airbags. Owners of Japanese cars produced before 2020 are required to check their vehicles.

• Airbag replacement will be free.
• After one year, cars with faulty Takata airbags will not be allowed to operate.
• Checks are available online via the VIN number.

The minister emphasized that the goal of all changes is to restore citizens' trust, reduce social tension, and make the traffic control system fairer.

The proposal to cancel fines for the past 4 months is planned to be submitted to the Cabinet meeting in the near future.