3 weeks ago
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The recent deployment of 4 new Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS ) by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation in a collaborative effort with Huawei Technologies, has been applauded by many because of its potential capacity to optimise traffic flow.
This will improve safety, reduce road congestions, crashes, deaths and to firm up transport data collation in the State, but has being advised not to downplay related additives.
In his reaction to this new development, Mr. Jide Owatunmise, a Road Safety Expert, Registrar/Chief Executive, Professional Driving and Safety Academy, Abuja, said, the deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems Cameras on 4 strategic routes in Lagos State is commendable and a clarion call to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and other State Governments to follow suite to enhance road traffic management and significantly promote safe transportation nationwide.
He added that many Countries all over the world are far ahead of Nigeria in the deployment of this advanced technology and he kept on wandering why Nigeria has been lagging behind despite the high rate of traffic violations and Road Traffic Crashes, Injuries and Deaths, saying, “I’ve challenged the Governments and relevant MDAs severally on this in some of my previous articles and presentations.
“Thank God that the Lagos State Government has set the pace. However, there are some issues that require attention before the deployment of the ITS technology can accomplish the set objectives and justify the investments in it.”, he said.
Owatunmise highlighted the following requirements as critical to the success of the project, stating the State Government should collaborate with the National Identity Management Commission for NIN, Banks for BVN, FRSC for data on Drivers’ Licence and Plate Numbers, and other critical Custodian of relevant information.
He said: “With this networking, the automated direct deduction of fines from the offenders’ bank account will be possible, not minding the status of the Traffic Offenders. This will reduce or eliminate human interference which has always being fuelling violations and corrupting the system.
“It is not enough to install Cameras. It is expedient that the appropriate traffic signs and road markings be put in place within the appropriate distance to alert the Drivers, Riders and pedestrians of the Traffic laws to be obeyed at each point. For example, it will be an act of injustice if the appropriate Speed Limit Signs are not installed at intervals in areas where the speeds have been restricted.
“Also, the Derestriction Sign must be installed at the points where the Speed Limit Restriction ends. The absence of these, particularly the ‘Drestriction’ Sign has been largely responsible for the unconscious and sometimes, conscious violation of Speed limit laws.” He emphasized.
The Road Safety Expert further revealed that research has shown that the number of ‘Vehicle Movers’ are more than the number of ‘Vehicle Drivers’.
Major categories of Drivers including vehicle Owners, do not know the Traffic Signs, Road Markings and many other Traffic Regulations, throwing up the need to encourage experienced Drivers and intending Drivers (Learners) to patronise accredited Driving Schools for the prerequisite theoretical and Practical Training as well as the Corporate Driver’s Re – Training programme, like the one operated by the Lagos State Drivers Institute (LASDRI)for Recertification.
Owatunmise harped that violators of certain traffic laws should be referred to Driving Schools for correctional Training at minimal fees. This will serve as a deterrent to committing traffic offences and also a boost to Driver Education.
He advocated that Drivers who commit traffic offences more than 7 times within 1 month should be charged to a Mobile or Small Claims Court for prosecution.
This will make the traffic laws in the State more effective for the accomplishment of the main objectives of ensuring sanity on the roads for free flow of traffic and Safety.
The deployment of technology in traffic management primarily involves using sensors, cameras, data analytics, and communication networks to collect real-time traffic data, analyze it, and make dynamic adjustments to traffic signals, reroute vehicles, provides adequate information for making plans, decision making and accelerate Transport infrastructural development.
Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, while announcing the acquisition of the new devices, explained that the new installations will complement the existing Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and other Traffic Management Solution (TMS) devices.
According to him, the newly deployed ITS sites are to presently monitor and regulate High Speed, Traffic Violations at Alapere where the speed limit is pegged at 80km/h speed limit and Nitel, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way which is limited to 60km/h.
“e- Police sites are installed at Allen Avenue Junction and Nurudeen Olowopopo road, equipped with high definition cameras to monitor violations such as running red lights, lane indiscipline, illegal U-turns and reverse driving.
These checkpoint sites are strategically located to detect and deter cases of over-speeding, which remains one of the leading causes of road accidents.” He stressed.
Osiyemi, revealed that through these high-definition cameras and real-time monitoring systems, the e-Police sites will serve as virtual traffic enforcement officers, ensuring that drivers adhere to road regulations, even when physical officers are not present, saying, “it is important to also note that enforcement will commence immediately. Motorists who violate traffic laws as detected by the ITS will receive SMS notifications from the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) department, detailing the nature of the violation and the corresponding fines to be paid.”
He explained that though the system is not designed to be punitive but to encourage responsible driving behaviour and reduce the rate of accidents on the roads, “however, motorists who over-speed will be fined N50,000, while red light offenders will be fined N20,000.” He asserts.
Osiyemi ,however ,maintained that the goal is simply to save lives, protect property, and create an orderly transportation environment.
Some of the Benefits of ITS as highlighted by the Transport Commissioner include; ‘Improved Road Safety, by discouraging reckless driving behaviours, efficient Traffic Flow, reducing congestion through better monitoring and management.
Adding, it will also help in making Data-Driven Decisions by government agencies who can plan more effectively based on real-time traffic data.
The Commissioner also pointed out that it will minimize human interference and reduce the potential for disputes while enhancing fairness in enforcement.
Osiyemi ,on a final note advised all road users, including private motorists, commercial drivers, and transport unions to comply with the traffic laws and regulations of Lagos State, “Drive within the speed limits, obey traffic signals, maintain your lane discipline, and avoid dangerous manoeuvres such as reverse driving on major roads.”
Earlier, the Honourable Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Olatubosun Alake, noted that the Lagos State government was poised to deliver a technologically advanced city. Alake said that the initiative would drive a positive transport outcome for the state, adding that, with the solution, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority’s job would become easier and more effective.
Mr. Olawale Musa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, emphasised that the benefits of the initiative outweigh any punitive measure or consideration of the fines.
Representatives from Huawei Technologies and key Directors from the Ministry were present at the meeting.
Other Road Transportation Experts have also identified the following as Key Technologies used in traffic management:
Traffic Sensors
These devices, like loop detectors embedded in the road, monitor vehicle presence and speed, providing data on traffic volume and flow.
CCTV Cameras
High-definition cameras capture images of traffic conditions, allowing for vehicle counting, license plate recognition, and traffic violation detection.
Variable Message Signs (VMS)
Digital signs that display dynamic traffic information like road closures, detours, and congestion alerts to drivers.
Connected Vehicle Technology (CVT)
It enables communication between vehicles and infrastructure, allowing for real-time updates on traffic conditions and potential hazards.
Traffic Signal Controllers With Adaptive Algorithms
These systems can adjust signal timing based on real-time traffic data, optimizing traffic flow at intersections.
Data Analytics Platforms
Software that processes large volumes of traffic data to identify patterns, predict congestion hotspots, and generate insights for traffic management strategies.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Used for advanced traffic analysis, identifying traffic patterns, predicting congestion, and optimizing traffic signal timings.
How Technology Is Deployed In Traffic Management
Data Collection
Sensors and cameras gather information about traffic volume, speed, and vehicle types at various locations across a city.
Real-Time Analysis
The collected data is processed by algorithms to provide insights into current traffic conditions.
Dynamic Signal Adjustments
Traffic signal controllers use real-time data to adjust signal timings at intersections to optimize traffic flow.
Traffic Information Dissemination
VMS displays and navigation apps are updated with real-time traffic information to inform drivers about congestion and suggest alternative routes.
Incident Management
Cameras and sensors can detect accidents or road hazards, enabling faster response from authorities.
Benefits Of Technology In Traffic Management
Reduced Congestion
By dynamically adjusting traffic signals and providing route guidance, technology can help alleviate traffic congestion.
Improved Safety
Real-time traffic information and incident detection can help prevent accidents.
Enhanced Efficiency
Optimised traffic signal timings and route planning can lead to faster travel times.
Environmental Benefits
Reduced congestion can lead to lower emissions from vehicles.
Challenges In Deploying Traffic Management Technology
High Initial Cost
Implementing a comprehensive traffic management system can be expensive due to the required hardware and software.
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