EPS traffic system goes live, motorists cautioned to obey rules
A mechanic fixes a license plate on a car recently. PHOTO/ FILE
What you need to know:
The system, which automatically captures red light and speeding violations, went live this week under the supervision of the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, and the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS)
The Electronic Penalty System (EPSAuto), a camera-enabled traffic enforcement tool, is now fully operational across Uganda, with authorities urging road users to strictly observe traffic rules to avoid penalties.
The system, which automatically captures red light and speeding violations, went live this week under the supervision of the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, and the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS).
Priscah Pearl Ayesiga, the Public Relations Officer for ITMS, said the 24/7 system is designed to deter reckless driving and save lives.
“As part of the ITMS, EPSAuto is now live. We urge all drivers and motorcyclists to prioritise safety and follow traffic rules,” she said. “Only vehicles on emergency duty are exempt. Everyone else will be penalised for red light and speeding violations.”
The system specifically enforces a 30 km/h speed limit around schools, markets, and other high-risk areas to protect vulnerable road users, she added.
“Compliance is not just mandatory, it's a safeguard for all. By obeying traffic laws, we protect lives and avoid penalties,” Ayesiga said.
Allan Ssempebwa, Senior Communications Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, said the current focus of EPSAuto is limited to red light and speeding violations, while other offences will continue to be enforced manually by traffic officers.
“Violators will be detected in real time. Once flagged, the system triggers an alert at the Uganda Police control centre and automatically generates a ticket that is sent to the offender’s mobile phone,” he explained.
He also clarified that both digital and older number plates are covered under the system.
“We shall communicate when the system expands, but for now, know that EPSAuto issues fines to all vehicle owners regardless of the type of number plate,” Ssempebwa said.
Authorities are calling on the public to drive responsibly, noting that speeding remains a leading cause of road deaths in Uganda. According to the 2024 Police Annual Crime Report, 44.5% of crashes were caused by speeding. The country recorded 25,107 road crashes last year, which claimed 5,144 lives.
