KUWAIT CITY, Oct 5: The General Traffic Department has intensified enforcement of traffic laws after road surveillance cameras recorded repeated incidents of reckless driving and deliberate obstruction of traffic that led to severe congestion and delays across the country. Authorities have begun implementing Articles 207 and 209 of the Executive Regulations of the Traffic Law, which allow for the impoundment of vehicles that cause traffic disruptions for up to two months.

A senior security source stated that the Traffic Department’s operations room, supported by advanced-generation surveillance cameras, patrol units, and drones, has detected a sharp rise in violations such as illegal overtaking, blocking lanes, and intentionally slowing traffic flow. These actions have been identified as major contributors to traffic jams and bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours.

The source explained that the latest directive emphasizes strict enforcement rather than leniency or reconciliation with violators. Traffic officers have been instructed to impound vehicles involved in these offenses for a period not exceeding 60 days, unless otherwise decided by the department. Fines for such violations range between KD 15 and KD 20.

The source stressed that the primary goal of this campaign is not to impose fines or seize vehicles, but to ensure road safety and improve driver behavior. “It is unethical for drivers to deliberately block or disrupt traffic, affecting others’ work and daily lives,” the source said.

Officials further noted that under the amended Traffic Law, all recorded violations—regardless of severity—can be referred to the court. In cases where expatriate drivers are repeatedly caught violating overtaking rules or intentionally obstructing or disrupting traffic, deportation procedures will be initiated.

Three Key Violations Targeted:

The Ministry of Interior affirmed that the intensified monitoring system, supported by drones and smart cameras, reflects the government’s commitment to reducing traffic chaos, ensuring smoother road movement, and promoting greater discipline among motorists in Kuwait.