Bangkok officials say they will begin using artificial intelligence to manage the flow of traffic on Ratchadapisek, Prasertmanukit and Ratchapruek roads in the capital. According to a Thai PBS World report, the model was developed through joint cooperation between the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Office of Transport, Traffic Policy and Planning.
Through the use of AI, officials will get an estimate of traffic volume every hour. The tool will also allow them to examine bottleneck areas and find solutions in real time, such as adjusting traffic lights based on how heavy the traffic is.
It’s understood the system will make use of 1,000 CCTV traffic cameras currently installed in the city and managed by the BMA. As part of the AI project, additional cameras are expected to be installed on Ratchadapisek Road.
There are approximately another 60,000 cameras around the capital, according to Thai PBS World. These are primarily used for security purposes and don’t work with the new AI system.
Meanwhile, deputy Bangkok governor, Wisanu Subsompon, says that until now, the city’s traffic lights have been programmed in line with traffic data, but only at certain times of day and not always in line with the real time situation. Wisanu says the BMA’s aim is to improve the flow of traffic in the capital within a year, for as low a cost as possible.
SOURCE: Thai PBS World
