Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed 65% of its ‘Intelligent Traffic Systems’ expansion project, which aims to broaden the scope of intelligent traffic systems as part of the emirate’s goal to become the smartest city in the world. It also reflects RTA’s efforts to harness smart technologies to ease people mobility in Dubai.
The project will expand the coverage of Dubai’s roads by intelligent traffic systems from the present 11% to 60%, and cut the time of detecting accidents and congestion build-ups on roads through quick-response smart systems mechanisms.
The intelligent traffic systems expansion project comprises five phases starting with installation of dynamic messaging signs (DMS) to relay instant traffic information and road conditions to motorists. The second phase covers traffic monitoring and data capturing systems which involves the installation of 116 cameras, 100 incidents detection systems, 114-transit time and speed computing devices, and 17 Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS).
Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors, RTA, said: “The project entails the construction of 112 DMS fitted with the latest technologies at selected locations on Dubai’s roads network as well as around mega-event spots, such as Expo 2020. The signs will furnish motorists with instant information about road conditions such as congestions, accidents, and traffic safety messages. There are two types of signs depending on road classification, number of lanes and traffic volumes. The first type of signs are those installed on roadsides, while the second are large signs that cover entire road lanes. RTA has finished installing 18 panels and work is underway to complete the remaining panels according to the project schedule.”
The third phase covers the infrastructure of civil works for the extension of the fibre optic network for communication between the on-site devices and central systems about 450 kilometres. The fourth phase involves upgrading the software for the advanced traffic central system, which contributes to support decision-making, and provides automatic response plans, where the system interfaces with site devices; analyses data and activates appropriate plans. Information relating to the network condition will be displayed on the DMS across Dubai.
The fifth phase covers the construction of a new traffic control centre featuring control rooms fitted with large screens and control systems for operators and engineers. The design caters to anticipated future expansions of the systems.
The expansion project is one of RTA’s Innovation Lab (RTA Masar 2030) deliverables which includes upgrading and expanding the intelligent traffic systems in Dubai and constructing a new traffic management centre at Al Barsha. Upon completion, the project will ease the management of traffic bottlenecks and accidents, enhance the safety of road users, and ease personal mobility with the help of sophisticated technologies.
