Penang has rolled out a new automated number plate recognition (ANPR) system today that will be used to issue parking compound fine notices on the spot. The system apparently scans number plates to detect unpaid parking fees in real-time and issue fine without requiring officers to physically be present.
The ANPR system uses optical character recognition to read number plates, which then cross-checks the numbers with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) database. If it detects that a vehicle is parked illegally or without payment, it will instantly issue a fine and notifications will be sent directly to the owner of the vehicle through the Penang Smart Parking app, which is the sole platform for parking payments at council lots.
According to state local government, town, and country planning committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye, the new system will lead to faster and smarter parking enforcement with fewer errors. “This isn’t just a tech upgrade. It is (a shift in) how we manage urban parking with smart enforcement, full digitalisation and a commitment to the environment with fewer paper compound notices,” said the chairman.
The Penang Island City Council and the Seberang Perai City Council will operate five ANPR units each. H’ng stated that the system will lower operating costs and potentially reduce manpower needs per patrol unit by 60%.
(Source: FMT)
