The ATSC system is expected to improve traffic flow by reducing delays through network-level optimization in Hyderabad.
Published Jun 24, 2022 | 4:55 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 22, 2022 | 12:05 PM
The new system has camera-based detectors. (Creative Commons)
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has replaced the existing traffic system with new ones that are expected to automatically and continuously adjust the green-light time based on the changing arrival patterns of vehicles at an intersection.
The new systems are called the Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATSC) and Pelican Signal System (PSS).
The ATSC system changes traffic signal colours based on real-time traffic data, in order to optimize a combination of delay and the number of stops, according to the GHMC.
According to GHMC officials, the new system has camera-based detectors that will constantly monitor approaching vehicles and create new timing sequences to match them.
Through a combination of local and network-level optimization, the systems are expected to reduce delays and improve traffic flow in the city.
The GHMC also said that the 94 Pelican signals that have been installed in the city come with a push-button feature that they say will help provide safe crossing for pedestrians.
These signals can be found installed near hospitals, educational institutes, and commercial places with high footfalls, said the officials.
The city is already serviced by Hyderabad Traffic Integrated Management System (HTRIMS) signals.
It has been upgraded to let the traffic police monitor signals remotely from the control room.
Meanwhile, the ATSC system will be regulated using artificial intelligence for automated signals, said the GHMC officials.
The traffic police have identified locations in the city which require these signals, and have suggested the authorities establish traffic signals in those areas.
Initially, the GHMC set a target of installing a total of 384 traffic signals — 234 HTRIMS signals and 150 ATSC signals — around the city.
However, some signals were rendered redundant in areas with new flyovers, U-turns, and various other projects.
As a result, the target has been reduced to 334 signals, of which 212 are HTRIMS and 122 are ATSC.
The advanced algorithm being used in the new traffic signal systems has been developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
It is known as Composite Signal Control Strategy.
It apparently adjusts the cycle time and coordinates with nearby intersections to manage area-wide traffic in real time.
Central connectivity is provided to all project signals, which will support both timing changes and maintenance alerts, said the officials.
