Combating coronavirus: Cameras to check if you are following Covid-19 guidelines in Dubai
A technology to use existing CCTV camera feeds to check whether people are violating the Covid-19 coronavirus preventive guidelines has been rolled out in Dubai.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA) has partnered with Derq, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) spinoff, to deploy the Artificial Intelligence (AI) based solution.
Deploying Derq’s algorithms, the solution uses camera feeds to monitor whether people are violating safety guidelines, including social distancing requirements, wearing of facemasks, and observance of occupancy requirements focused on ensuring safety.
Feeds from CCTV and other security cameras in community spaces that face high risk of Covid-19 transmissions are analysed in real time to detect and report any violation that could cause harm to the broader community. The technology provides decision makers with a personalised dashboard to review the community’s overall to guidelines, which also allows them to take immediate action to ensure collective safety adherence.
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Vice Chairman & CEO of DSOA said, “In the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the emirate strives to catalyse innovation and push the limits of leveraging technology to benefit people. At Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, we are dedicated to tap synergies with key entities across diverse sectors to actively exchange knowledge and expertise, as well as best practices and successful smart city solutions.”
Dr. Georges Aoude, Co-Founder and CEO of Derq, said, “Derq’s efforts have always been rooted in our mission to enhance citizens’ safety. Through this initiative, we are able to do just that in the places that matter most – on our roads, and in our hospitals, offices, malls, beaches, and airports. However, we cannot simply do this alone; our partnerships with governments and businesses, such as Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, empower us to implement this technology and ensure its success.”