Warsaw-based “Miasto Jest Nasze” association, representing 20,000 citizens, demands acoustic speed cameras to enforce noise regulations against loud vehicles.
Urban Noise Crisis
Urban noise is an increasingly serious problem ignored by officials. According to WHO data, long-term noise exposure leads to insomnia, stress, cardiovascular problems, and even depression. Modified motorcycles and cars with altered exhausts are among the biggest noise polluters, emitting sounds exceeding 100-150 decibels.
Call for Action
The “Miasto Jest Nasze” association submitted a petition with over 20,000 signatures to a parliamentary commission. They demand the implementation of acoustic speed cameras as an effective tool to enforce regulations and curb the plague of loud motorcycles and modified vehicles.
Global Examples
Similar devices already operate in New York, automatically registering excessive vehicle noise and reading license plates to impose fines. In 2023, New York issued $1.5 million in fines through this system. Berlin and Paris are also testing similar technology, with France using the Hydre system consisting of directional microphones, wide-angle cameras, and LAPI technology.
Government Response
Initially, Poland’s Ministry of Infrastructure rejected implementing acoustic speed cameras due to “lack of appropriate legal basis” and the need for further analysis. However, after more than a year, the ministry has changed its approach, stating that acoustic speed cameras are now “within the scope of interest” and preliminary analyses have been conducted considering solutions from other countries.
Path Forward
The implementation of such devices requires certain legal changes. The association is calling for appropriate legislative corrections. While the Ministry of Infrastructure plans to begin preparing national solutions in cooperation with other ministries, no timeline has been set for the legal changes that would enable the use of acoustic speed cameras in Poland.
