Saudi- Traffic lights make motorists see red

(MENAFN- Arab News) BURAIDAH: The Traffic Department in Qassim denied any responsibility in the failure of digital counters in traffic signals especially those equipped with the Saher system for monitoring traffic violations.
The failure of these digital counters at some locations has sparked a debate on social networking sites as some people have accused the traffic department of intentionally disconnecting these counters in order to catch drivers committing violations to generate income from tickets.
The issue has also sparked confusion among drivers as some feared crossing rapidly changing lights in order to avoid violations.
Responding to the allegations Nasser Al-Quraini director of the Qassim Traffic Department said that the department is not targeting drivers but is keen on ensuring that all road users comply with traffic regulations in order to avoid receiving tickets or slapped with fines.
With regard to the failure of digital counters at traffic lights linked to Saher he said a meeting was held with the party responsible for maintenance and a technical problem has been identified. He said the traffic department has no involvement in the issue and maintenance is currently underway.
Some traffic signals are fully functioning while others will be up and running in the coming days he said.
Al-Quraini who was appointed to his post last week pointed out that there were several observations related to traffic issues offered by citizens and a comprehensive traffic plan is in place to address these issues in locations with dense infrastructure projects like Buraidah.
The results of these efforts will become evident over the next few months he confirmed noting that the traffic department is open to criticism and observations at all times.