3G technology links 410 traffic junctions in Dubai

Dubai — Traffic signals in Dubai have been linked with 3G technology, according to officials at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The technology will be adopted across 410 traffic junctions across the UAE.

Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads Agency, announced the completion of connecting all traffic signals in the emirate with the Traffic Control Centre. Meanwhile, work is up and running in completing the project of shifting the control of traffic signals from the existing hired telephone lines to the 3G technology.

This technology will enable remote control of signals via RTA’s Traffic Control Centre. The step is set to alleviate and enable better management of traffic congestion at junctions as per the changing traffic patterns, and minimise the delay resulting from the timing and synchronisation issues of the traffic signals.

The technology allows control to be totally shifted from wire to wireless systems.

Engineer Maitha said: “This innovative project will boost the global profile of Dubai, particularly as the system is applied for the first time worldwide. The system has a host of benefits such as its effectiveness, smooth implementation and link with the control centre, easy maintenance and the low-cost compared to the previous scenario; where an infrastructure of cables and lines from service providers are required near each signal.”

Commenting on the project progress, bin Udai said the RTA, represented by the Traffic and Roads Agency, had finalised the site surveying in order to capture information about loop location and scoot loop for all the junctions in Dubai, which is 410 junctions.

Speaking about the work progress of the project, bin Udai said: “Till the middle of January, the RTA completed 75 per cent of works for connecting signal lights with the 3G wireless network. So up to now the RTA controls 330 signalised junctions in Dubai using 3G technologies, and the remaining number of light signals (about 500) will be linked with the control centre via 3G networks by the end of March 2015.”

The head of the traffic and roads agency said: “It will be possible to reduce traffic congestion at junctions, particularly if there was a need for an additional signal later on.

It will be easy to detect, manage and report defects in a creative manner, and necessary synchronisation will be made to ensure the highest rates of efficiency and streamlined operation of light signals control systems.” -dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com