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86 electronic signs on Capital’s roads

Eighty-six electronic signs will soon be dotting the capital city alerting motorists of congestions ahead and other traffic problems.

The Department of Transport (DoT) announced on Wednesday the launch of the integrated Variable Electronic Message Signs (VMS) initiative, meant to ensure the seamless integration between all modes of transport to fulfil the transport-safety, mobility and sustainability needs launched under the Vision 2030 plan.

The project will be rolled out in phases and will be fully operational during the third quarter of 2014.

“The launch of our VMS project is a testament to our commitment to providing our community with safer roads across the city of Abu Dhabi,” said department Main Roads general director Faisel Al Suwaidi.

The project is set to provide over 86 VMS electronic signs across Abu Dhabi main roads and internal streets to alert motorists of traffic congestion, road blocks, construction, road weather information and road accidents providing needed time to change their travel route, if necessary.

“The electronic signs will allow us to communicate with motorists in real time to ensure they are kept up to date with necessary traffic information to plan their route accordingly and be aware of any upcoming traffic issues.”

The DoT is preparing to launch two types of VMS to enhance road safety. Thirty-eight electronic signs will be general message boards which alert motorists of any road closures, while 48 signs will provide specific lane messages identifying closures and speed limit changes, preparing motorists for any road diversions and upcoming traffic.

The signs will also be fitted with closed-circuit cameras to ensure messages are clear and up to date.

In addition, 56 of the electronic signs will feature traffic counters that will collect data and send across to the central data centre. The data will be analysed in real time and used to alert motorists of any upcoming traffic or estimated delay time.

The department will also track weather conditions such as fog and rainfall to prepare motorists to reduce their driving speeds and be extra vigilant while on the road.

nissar@khaleejtimes.com