Highlights
- Semi-automatic traffic signaling system begins today (Saturday, August 30) at 7 intersections in Dhaka.
- This is part of a larger project to install signals at 22 intersections from Shikkha Bhaban to Airport.
- A two-week pilot program will test the system.
- DMP police officers and BUET experts will jointly operate the signals.
- Public awareness campaign through leaflets and TV announcements planned.
Pilot Launch of New Traffic System
From today, Saturday morning (7:00 am, August 30), a semi-automatic signaling system is officially starting at 7 key intersections in Dhaka. The project is part of a bigger plan to introduce modern traffic signals across 22 intersections from Shikkha Bhaban to the Airport corridor.
According to the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA), the system will run on a two-week pilot basis, after which results will be reviewed. Based on the outcome, the remaining signals will also be launched gradually.
Read More: “Stop Hypocrisy, Sir”— Hasnat to Asif Nazrul over Nurul Haque Nur Violence
Decision Finalized at DTCA Meeting
The DTCA confirmed in a press note issued on Friday, August 29 that this decision was taken during a meeting at their office on Thursday.
The 7 intersections chosen for the pilot program are:
- Hotel InterContinental
- Banglamotor
- Sonargaon
- Farmgate
- Bijoy Sarani
- Chief Adviser’s Office
- Jahangir Gate
Training for Smooth Operation
To ensure proper use of the system, relevant DMP traffic police officers have already completed necessary training provided by Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
At each intersection, there will be a setup similar to a police box. Inside, a controller will manage the system, assisted by two operators—one from the traffic police and another from BUET.
The signals can be run both automatically and manually, depending on traffic needs.
Public Awareness Campaign
During this trial phase, the DTCA will also focus on making people aware of the new system. For this, leaflets will be distributed among drivers and pedestrians, and awareness messages will be broadcast on television.
A Larger Project for Dhaka’s Traffic
This initiative is part of a much bigger project under which 22 intersections between High Court and Airport will have modern traffic signals. The project is being implemented with the joint funding of Dhaka North and South City Corporations, coordinated by the DTCA, and with technical advice from BUET.
On-Site Visit Before the Launch
Earlier this morning, just before the pilot began, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Sheikh Moinuddin along with officials from the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry, Railway Ministry, DTCA, DNCC, DSCC, Roads and Highways Department, and Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) visited the route from InterContinental Intersection to Jahangir Gate.
They inspected the preparations and gave final instructions to ensure a smooth start of the system.
Source: TBS
