The Ministry of Public Security is drafting amendments to Decree 168/2024 on administrative penalties in road traffic, which includes significant proposals impacting passenger and cargo transport businesses. The draft, open for feedback until 19/4 and expected to take effect from 1/7, aims to address a "legal blind spot" in passenger compartments. Currently, Decree 168/2024/ND-CP requires transport businesses to install journey monitoring devices and driver image recorders, primarily to track routes, vehicle operation, continuous driving time, and unsafe behaviors. However, the lack of direct supervision in passenger areas has led to persistent issues such as overcrowding, unauthorized pick-up and drop-off, and complex security concerns on vehicles. Consequently, the draft proposes mandating the installation of image recording devices in passenger compartments for commercial passenger vehicles with eight seats or more, excluding the driver's seat.

The proposed penalties for non-compliance are substantial. Drivers who fail to install the device, operate it incorrectly, or intentionally falsify data while driving could face fines ranging from one to 2 million dong. Transport businesses will also incur corresponding penalties: individuals could be fined five to 6 million dong, while organizations face fines of 10 to 12 million dong. Additionally, violators will be required to install the devices in accordance with regulations.

In-cabin cameras are seen as a solution to control passenger overcrowding on commercial passenger vehicles. *Photo: Public Security*

Three-year implementation roadmap

Recognizing the financial and technical preparations required for device installation, the draft decree outlines a phased implementation. According to Clause 3, Article 17, regulations on penalties related to passenger compartment image recording devices will become effective from 1/1/2029. This date is approximately two years and nine months from now, and significantly later than the decree's general effective date of 1/1/2026. This extended timeline aims to provide transport businesses with sufficient opportunity to proactively plan and ensure the feasibility of installation.

The Ministry of Public Security's proposal highlights that installing in-cabin cameras serves a broader purpose beyond just imposing penalties. It aims to resolve management "bottlenecks" and foster a transparent, fair passenger transport environment. With passenger compartments under surveillance, issues like unauthorized "xe du" (illegal taxis), "ben coc" (unofficial bus stops), and indiscriminate pick-up/drop-off at unauthorized offices will be minimized. Crucially, the recorded image data will provide objective evidence to protect passengers' safety and health, while also assisting law enforcement in combating crime on transport routes.

Addressing concerns about passengers' personal data during recording, Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang affirmed that "recorded data will be strictly protected, and any misuse will be dealt with." He clarified that recording applies only to passenger compartments, which are public spaces, and does not extend to private compartments or vehicles not operating for public purposes.

*By Hai Thu*