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In the wake of the newly implemented Automated Electronic Penalty System (EPS) in Uganda, motorists have taken to social media to share clever tricks to beat the system.
The system implemented by the Ministry of Works and Transport, together with the Traffic Police and the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMs) has sparked a wave of outrage among motorists.
Since the system went live, it has issued fines for speeding, red-light violations, and other infractions detected by automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras.
While the system is intended to enhance road safety, many drivers have criticised it as excessive, with fines issued for what they consider minor or unclear violations.
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Finding Ways Around the System
In response, a section of Ugandans has come up with ways skirt the penalties
Among the most popular methods is the use of fresh fish to partially cover car number plates.
A common practice in Uganda, hanging fresh fish on the car grille or front bumper helps to avoid odour inside the vehicle, but some have now turned it into an excuse to conceal the number plates from the prying eyes of traffic cameras.
Ugandans have come up with creative ways to dodge EPS fines
Others have resorted to smearing mud on parts of their plates, hoping to confuse the automated recognition system.
In addition to these creative tactics, some Ugandans have enlisted the help of technology, such as using Google Maps to pinpoint locations of traffic cameras.
Dr Emma Sserunjoji, a vocal critic of the EPS system, is even working on a public, interactive Google Map that will allow drivers to identify camera spots and the speed limits on those roads.
The map, he said, will be available for free, will be a valuable tool for motorists to navigate through areas with EPS cameras and avoid fines.
The new system, designed to enforce traffic regulations through automated cameras and number plate recognition, has left many motorists feeling unfairly penalised.
Ugandans have come up with creative ways to dodge EPS fines
Some drivers have reported receiving multiple fines in a single day, with one individual, Nasasira, sharing his distress of receiving three fines in one day, totalling Shs1.4 million. After just three days of non-payment, the fine grew to Shs2.1 million.
The frustration has been compounded by the lowering of speed limits on roads like the Northern Bypass, where limits have dropped to as low as 30 km/h, a move many drivers believe is both impractical and dangerous, especially at night.
The system has drawn heavy criticism for being punitive, and many feel it is more about generating revenue than ensuring road safety.