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Hi-tech signals to ease traffic

The Department of Transport (DoT) has installed high-tech traffic signals at seven busy intersections in the capital that will help further smoothen traffic flow and avoid congestion.

According to the department, the smart signal technology costing Dh75 million will also enhance safety and security for road users in Mohammed bin Zayed City, whilst providing proactive solutions to ensure smoother traffic.

“The system, now operational in seven out of the city’s total 34 intersections following a pilot project, encompasses the deployment of smart and integrated traffic/pedestrian signals as well as a video surveillance system,” said Faisal Ahmed Al Suwaidi, General Director of Main Roads at the department.

The first of its kind to be deployed in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the traffic signal control system will help enhance traffic in Mohammed bin Zayed City through reducing of recurring congestions, boosting safety level for all road users, especially in intersections, ensuring faster responses to non-recurring congestions and better travel times, as well as lowering the level of fuel consumption, noise and green house emissions.

Besides, the system operates traffic-responsive and adaptive signal control schemes which optimise timing plans for signal network according to traffic conditions offline and in real-time based on surveillance information gathered from the traffic roadway network.

The system is connected to the existing traffic control centre in Abu Dhabi as well as to future satellite control centre to be located in Mohammed bin Zayed City.

“The deployment of traffic signal control system in Mohammed bin Zayed City is in line with the DoT’s strategy aimed at establishing world-class sustainable and integrated transport infrastructure that provides the public with a wide spectrum of benefits such as reducing traffic congestions, especially near the intersections, enhancing the level of security and safety for both vehicle owners and pedestrians, as well as protecting the environment via operating proactive solutions,” said Al Suwaidi.

The installation of the traffic signal control system, he added, comes following thorough studies and site visits conducted by the DoT in cooperation with the Department of Municipal Affairs to see first-hand the best of breed solutions tackling the issue traffic congestions, especially Mohammed bin Zayed City is experiencing unprecedented level of urban and development projects as well as rapidly-growing population. The DoT plans to roll out the system in other areas in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi such as the cities of Western Region.

The traffic signal control system is expected to be accomplished and fully operational in all intersections by the fourth quarter of next year.

nissar@khaleejtimes.com