The camera, mounted on a pole more than 20 metres high at Binh Minh Square, is being piloted to assess its ability to monitor the beach from above and use artificial intelligence to support safety and security management.
Nguyen The Son, deputy head of Cua Lo Ward's Culture and Social Affairs Division, said the area could consider installing additional AI cameras around Lan Chau Island and along the 72-metre-wide road leading to the beach if the pilot proves effective and funding is available.
The system is intended to help improve safety for swimmers while monitoring activities such as littering, improper use of jet skis, unauthorised passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, disorderly gatherings, fights and illegal street racing.
The equipment is a Hikvision DS-2TD6267-100C4L/WY dual-spectrum thermal and optical camera. Its optical camera has 4-megapixel resolution, 56x optical zoom and continuous 360-degree rotation, while its thermal camera has a resolution of 640 by 512 pixels and infrared capability of up to 800 metres.
Mounted at an elevated position, the camera can cover a wide area of the beach. It is also designed to withstand corrosion, humidity and harsh coastal weather.
AI-powered image analysis can detect activities including crossing designated boundaries and entering or leaving monitored areas.
During the initial trial, the system will focus on two main scenarios. It will detect swimmers entering restricted or dangerous areas and alert management staff and lifeguards so they can respond.
It will also test its ability to identify large gatherings and signs of fights or disturbances, allowing relevant personnel to respond quickly.
After the pilot, the system will be assessed for its coverage, the accuracy of its AI functions and its effectiveness in beach management.
The project is part of Cua Lo Ward's digital transformation programme, which also includes plans for a tourism information portal, digital tourism map and smart public broadcasting system.