Smart traffic lights ease road congestion in UAE

Sharjah - Advanced ground sensors have been installed on roads to assess the volume of vehicles.

In Sharjah, traffic lights in some major intersections no longer work on standard timers - they are now 'smart' enough to decide which lane must get the green light, depending on the volume of vehicles.
The smart traffic light system has been developed by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) and, since its roll-out, road congestions have been reduced, especially during peak hours, said Mohsin Balwan, director of road maintenance at the SRTA.
"The improved control system has significantly reduce traffic knots mainly in the morning when motorists head out for work and in the evening when they drive back home," he said.
As part of the system, advanced ground sensors have been installed on roads and these automatically assess the volume of vehicles from all directions. Lights are triggered based on the system's analysis of the traffic flow, Balwan explained.
The system has been upgraded on the Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan Bu Alian intersection, he said.
"The new system, including a wireless gadget that can be easily installed, is equipped with batteries that can last eight to 10 years."
Balwan said more smart technologies are being developed by the SRTA to ensure people's safety, security and convenience, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• Sharjah