Transport for London (TfL) has made it clear that the vandalism targeted at ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) cameras will not deter the ongoing expansion of the scheme. This statement comes
as the Metropolitan Police reported a total of 288 crimes related to the cameras by August 1, along with releasing a suspect's image.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is set to extend the Ulez area to cover the entire capital, effective from August 29. This expansion means that a significantly larger number of vehicle drivers failing to meet minimum emission standards will be subject to a daily £12.50 fee.
TfL is actively installing 2,750 cameras within the new Ulez areas, aimed at detecting non-compliant vehicles.
Despite repeated incidents of vandalism by anti-Ulez activists targeting these cameras, TfL emphasizes its commitment to the scheme's expansion.
The transportation body cautioned against such acts, emphasizing that those tampering with the cameras' wiring risk severe life-threatening injuries or death from electric shocks.
TfL is working closely with social media platforms to identify individuals seen damaging Ulez cameras in circulating online videos. The statement concludes, "Camera vandalism will not deter the Ulez's expansion throughout London on August 29."
The Metropolitan Police initiated an operation in April following reports by TfL of criminal damage to, and theft of, cameras. Crimes reported include 185 cables being damaged, 164 cameras stolen, and 38 cameras obscured. A single camera could be associated with multiple offenses.
Commander Owain Richards of the Metropolitan Police stated, "These acts of criminality are unacceptable," while highlighting their ongoing investigation efforts and cooperation with TfL to prevent further camera damage or theft.
Measures have been taken to make the cameras more resilient to vandalism, including the use of reinforced metal boxes and enhanced cable protection.
Nick Fairholme, TfL's Director of Capital Delivery, urged vandals to reconsider their actions, citing instances where exposed cables endangered repair workers' lives. TfL's data shows that 9 out of 10 cars driving in outer London comply with Ulez standards. However, data from the RAC indicates that over 690,000 licensed cars across London are likely non-compliant.
The expansion of Ulez has its detractors, with motorcyclists opposing it planning a protest ride around the M25 and converging on Box Hill in Surrey.
Mayor Sadiq Khan previously acknowledged the challenge in expanding Ulez but asserted its positive impact on the environment, stating that it "will result in five million more Londoners breathing cleaner air." Photo by Gammew, Wikimedia commons.