Controlling traffic is a huge problem, especially in huge cities. Shanghai, in an effort to cut down on traffic violations, is to install a new generation of "electric eyes" to monitor roads around the city.
   
The "electric eyes" digitally record all car information like license plate number, appearance and model when a driver does not obey traffic rules. The information is recorded in a database and if the driver doesn't pay penalties on time, when the eye sees the car again, the device will activate the warning signal that informs the police.
   
Shen Jie, the inventor of the device, says it will help the police deal with traffic violations.
   
"When it sees the car a second time, it'll send an alarm signal at once. Then the nearby traffic police can catch the car at once."
   
The new device will also be helpful when dealing with cases like counterfeit license plates and hit and run accidents.

(CRI December 17, 2004)