Dubai bus routes to be tweaked using AI algorithms

Dubai - The step is part of the RTA's endeavours to apply technology in improving the experience of public transport riders.

By Staff Report

Published: Mon 7 Sep 2020, 2:54 PM

A total of 150 routes used by 2,158 public buses will be revamped using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced.
"We experimented machine learning algorithms on 10 routes where Nol card data was employed to figure out all-day busy bus stops, stops used during peak hours and rarely used stops," said Ahmed Mahboub, executive director of smart services, corporate technology support services sector, RTA.

.@rta_dubai has started experimenting the use of AI technologies - machine learning algorithms - in plotting bus routes in #Dubai, based on the extent of usage throughout the day.https://t.co/9W1ZKj9vZI pic.twitter.com/tjDQIwvASn
- Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) September 6, 2020

The trial phase, carried out for 30 days, resulted in saving time by 13.3 per cent, he added.
The step is part of the RTA's endeavours to apply technology in improving the experience of public transport riders.
"By using machine learning algorithms in analysing the captured data, the departments can build up systems and take decisions with reference to abolishing certain stops or proposing an express service that skips those stops, while ensuring customer needs are always addressed. Such a process will contribute to improving this vital service," said Mahboub.
"As buses cover about 153 million kilometres per annum, the technology is set to bring about considerable savings in fuel consumption and the reduction of carbon emissions. It will also save time and effort of route planners thanks to the automated route-proposal and improvement process based on AI solutions. Such deliverables will encourage the RTA to generalise the application of the technology to all bus routes and stops," he added.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com