The Swiss town of Birsfelden is taking bold steps to combat traffic congestion caused by drivers avoiding highway jams.

Starting July 2025, the town will implement a pioneering system of automatic cameras to monitor and fine vehicles that spend less than 15 minutes in the area.

This initiative, approved with a budget of nearly 500,000 Swiss francs, aims to deter non-residents from using local streets as shortcuts.

Violators will face a 100-franc fine, while residents, emergency vehicles, and other exceptions will be exempt.

The system is expected to reduce traffic, protect neighborhoods, and generate significant revenue.

However, concerns about privacy and implementation remain, with critics calling for further legal review.

If successful, this could set a precedent for other Swiss towns facing similar issues.