RTA launches 2nd phase of Intelligent Traffic Systems

The consultant will have to study, design and supervise implementation of the project on key roads, which were uncovered in the Phase I.

Salah Al Marzooqi, Director of ITS Department at Traffic and Roads Agency, said the second phase will see the introduction of sophisticated systems to detect traffic accidents and congestions using electronic devices, smart cameras and trip time calculation systems.

"The road condition analysis system will be upgraded by developing new means for communicating information to road users such as the electronic traffic signs, lane- and speed-defining devices, and enhanced dynamic navigation systems. New channels will be established for communicating traffic information to the public via electronic modes such as e-mail, SMS and any other possible means," he said.

The consultant will prepare a five-year plan to generalise application of the ITS to all roads of the emirate.

Maitha bin Adai, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency, said the project has been awarded to a consultant who would oversee the project from the stage of studying and planning till it is finally applied to all roads of the emirate.

“The studying and planning phase encompasses using sophisticated technology to keep pace with the speedy growth rates, massive property development and increasing population requirements in the emirate,” said Maitha.

She added that the ITS expansion project covers all roads in the emirate over the next five years.

The first phase of the ITS, which focused on streamlining and managing traffic flow, included building a modern traffic control centre fitted with giant screens to monitor traffic at key junctions, roads and crossings.

"Through these systems, we are able to control over 300 intersections, including temporary junctions at traffic diversion locations. The system also enables highway traffic management through 82 mobile surveillance cameras to monitor intersections and key roads."