Kazakhstan is setting a new standard for urban security with its pioneering “Carpet CCTV” project, a comprehensive surveillance network that uses advanced analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to proactively prevent crime and improve public safety. This ambitious initiative represents a shift away from traditional reactive security measures, instead focusing on real-time monitoring and prevention through a vast and sophisticated infrastructure. By blending cutting-edge technologies with an expansive network of cameras, Kazakhstan is leading the way in transforming how cities manage safety.
The scale of the Carpet CCTV project is staggering. What began with a modest network of 40,500 cameras has now grown to over 1.3 million, with 313,000 of these cameras directly accessible to law enforcement. The widespread camera coverage is strategically positioned in high-priority areas such as major roadways, public spaces, and urban centers, giving police the tools they need to detect incidents and violations as they occur. This expansion has already yielded impressive results: in just a few months in 2024, the system successfully identified over 8,200 criminal offenses and detected millions of traffic violations, which have had a direct impact on road safety and public order.
At the core of the system’s success is its use of AI to enhance the capabilities of traditional surveillance. Technologies like facial recognition and license plate detection allow authorities to identify individuals of interest in real time, while AI-driven analytics help monitor traffic patterns and detect public disturbances. This shift from passive surveillance to proactive risk management not only helps prevent crimes but also improves law enforcement efficiency. Additionally, the AI-powered traffic monitoring system has contributed to better road safety, as well as generating a source of revenue through fines.
However, the implementation of such an extensive network has not come without its challenges. The need to process and store vast amounts of data from millions of high-definition cameras required substantial upgrades to Kazakhstan’s data infrastructure. Privacy concerns also prompted the government to put in place strong regulatory frameworks to ensure the balance between surveillance and citizen rights. Through careful planning and collaboration between the public and private sectors, these challenges have been overcome, positioning the Carpet CCTV project as a potential model for other countries looking to enhance urban security through technology.
One of the most notable outcomes of this initiative is the deterrent effect it has had on crime and administrative offenses. The presence of surveillance cameras has led to a noticeable decline in public disturbances, showing that the mere visibility of such technologies can change behavior and reduce incidents before they escalate. This is a testament to how technology, when deployed thoughtfully, can not only react to security threats but also prevent them, making the Carpet CCTV project a groundbreaking example of smart city infrastructure.