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Lübeck’s 0 km/h Christmas-Market Camera Removed for Recharge, Set to Return

The city deployed a motion-triggered camera to enforce a temporary vehicle ban at the market for pedestrian safety.

Overview

  • The mobile device was taken down overnight on December 16 to read out data and recharge its battery, with municipal officers conducting spot checks until it is reinstalled.
  • Configured to trigger at 0 km/h during market hours from 10:30 to 22:00, the system photographs any movement on the roadway rather than measuring speed.
  • Images of pedestrians and cyclists are to be deleted as quickly as possible, while drivers who ignore the closure face a €50 fine, according to the city.
  • Officials say the closure is needed because the street becomes a dead end during the market, leading to hazardous turning maneuvers that put pedestrians at risk.
  • The setup drew wide social-media attention with people deliberately triggering flashes and criticism over unclear signage early on.