Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated the second phase of the Smart Pedestrian Signals project in the city, encompassing 10 additional locations. The new installations will bring the total number of smart pedestrian signal sites to 28 by 2024.
The launch of this phase comes after the successful implementation of smart pedestrian signals in multiple important locations throughout Dubai during the first phase.
The RTA has stated that the project’s expansion reflects its dedication to employing advanced smart technologies and the Internet of Things to ensure smooth traffic management and enhance the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike.
According to the RTA, the smart signal technology functions by employing sensors that are connected to a ground optical system, which in turn communicates with the signal’s light system.
The technology is capable of detecting pedestrian movement on the pavement before they start crossing the street and while they are in the process of crossing the pedestrian crossing.
This results in a significant enhancement of pedestrian safety and a boost to traffic light efficiency, ensuring improved signal timing management, according to TradeArabia News.
Mohammed Al Ali, the Director of Intelligent Traffic Management Department, Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA, said: “The system proved effective in improving pedestrian safety in cases involving those who require more time to cross, like elderly residents, people of determination, and individuals with luggage or pushchairs.”
“Results showed that no pedestrian accidents occurred since the introduction of smart pedestrian signals, which confirms the effectiveness of the project in raising traffic safety at intersections. It also improved the vehicle flow by eliminating the pedestrian mode in case no pedestrians detected thus offering more time to motorists,” he explained.
According to Al Ali, this RTA initiative will help to strengthen Dubai’s ambitious plan of becoming a top smart city and a global pioneer in intelligent traffic systems.
The RTA has established criteria for selecting locations for smart pedestrian signal installations in collaboration with strategic partners. These criteria include the distance between pedestrian crossings, the frequency of pedestrian incidents at the signal, street classification (such as speed limits and the number of lanes in each direction), proximity to footbridges, and the road’s design.
