The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has carried out a trial operation of a smart pedestrian light signal as part of RTA’s initiatives undertaken under the Smart City drive.

The underlying goal of the smart pedestrian signal is to ensure a safe crossing of pedestrians in line with RTA’s vision of ‘Safe and Smooth Transport for All.’

Engineer Metha bin Adai, CEO of RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, said:

“RTA had tentatively installed and operated smart light signals for pedestrians on Al Saada St. The operational system of the signal is designed to eliminate the time allocated to pedestrians if it senses no pedestrians waiting on the pavement, thus provides more time for vehicles to pass.

“The traffic signal uses a sensor-based smart system through an optical ground system that works in perfect harmony with the lights of the signal. It spots the movement of pedestrians on the pavement (before crossing the street) or on the crossing path (during crossing) and automatically modifies the timing of the signal’s light accordingly. Thus, it allows the safe passage of the largest possible number of pedestrians and accordingly provides an excellent and smart service to all road users.

“The system has gone through all technical tests and trials to ensure a smooth functionality. RTA is currently pondering to broaden the scope of this trial by installing more signals on similar locations of Dubai roads network,” added Bin Udai.

Staff Reporter/Khaleej Times