Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority has always been top notch. From launching special initiatives to ensure residents follow traffic rules to launching rest areas for delivery riders during Ramadan, Dubai’s RTA leaves no stone unturned to give its people the best service. And now, there’s yet another addition to this list. RTA has yet again added a feather on their cap with the installation of smart pedestrian signals. Yes, this too is possible ONLY in Dubai. Read on!
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) plans to introduce a new traffic system to enhance the safety of pedestrians. The new system is being installed in phases. In the first phase, smart pedestrian signals were installed at various key locations throughout Dubai. The second phase was announced recently and included 10 new sites. The goal however, is to rise to 28 sites in early 2024.
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how does it work?
The Smart Pedestrian Signals technology is powered by a sensor-based system that is linked to a ground optical system that is synchronized with the signal’s light operation. It detects pedestrian movement on the sidewalk before crossing the street and on the pedestrian crossing while crossing. This significantly improves pedestrian safety while also increasing the efficiency of traffic light operations and ensuring better signal timing management.
The expansion of the project documents its keenness to employ the latest smart technologies and the Internet of Things in smooth traffic management, as well as raising the level of safety for pedestrians and vehicle owners. All this, will in turn contribute to enhancing Dubai’s ambitious vision- making it a smart city.
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Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Intelligent Traffic Systems Department at the Traffic and Roads Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority, said: “The smart pedestrian signal technology works through a system that relies on sensors connected to the ground lights system on the sidewalks, both sides of the crossing, and the pedestrian corridor, which are in harmony with the lighting of the signals. It reads the movement of pedestrians on the sidewalks before and during the crossing period, which contributes primarily to raising the level of pedestrian safety, in addition to raising the efficiency of operating the traffic light and better managing its timing.”
Ali further explained that the project has proven effective in raising the level of traffic safety, in addition to giving sufficient time to cross pedestrians who need more time than normal to cross. This included the elderly, people with special needs, children, and baggage carriers.
The results showed that no pedestrian accidents occurred since the installation of smart pedestrian signals. In addition, the new system also helped achieve a high fluidity in the movement of vehicles as a result of canceling the pedestrian stage at all intersections. Meanwhile, did you know Parents In Dubai Can Now Pre-Book RTA Taxis For School Pick-Ups And Drop.
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