Dubai RTA to expand smart traffic systems

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to invest AED590m ($160m) to extend its smart traffic systems.

The funds will be spent on upgrading and expanding the existing network by providing an integrated infrastructure of systems.

A new traffic management platform will also be constructed under the plans.

The improvements aim to help the management of traffic congestion and reduce accidents, boosting overall safety for road users.

RTA director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors Mattar Al Tayer said: “This project is one of the key deliverables of RTA’s Innovation Lab, Masar 2030, endorsed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president, prime minister and ruler of Dubai.

“It encompasses the design and construction of an integrated infrastructure for Dubai smart traffic systems, and the construction of a new traffic control centre at Al Barsha. It envisages increasing the smart system coverage of Dubai roads network from the present 11% to 60%.”

The project is expected to reduce the time of detecting accidents and congestion build-up, as well as accelerate response times.

It will also provide instant traffic information to the public about road networks through new variable messaging signs and smart apps.

Al Tayer added: “It will further step up the management of traffic movement at major events, such as Expo 2020.”

The nature of the project means the primary stage will be split into five key segments.

The first and second segments involve the installation of traffic monitoring and data capturing systems and the erection of 112 information signboards respectively.

Segment three will see the development of infrastructure such as civil works, fibre-optic lines, and electricity distribution networks, while the fourth part covers the advanced central traffic system.

Phase five involves the construction of a traffic control centre to accommodate the increase in smart traffic systems.