Motorists in Bengaluru can now experience reduced manual traffic control, thanks to the installation of AI-enabled Adaptive Traffic Control Systems (ATCS) at 41 city junctions. This system is designed to automate signal management, minimising the need for traffic police officers to manually direct vehicles or adjust signal lights at key intersections.

AI-Driven Traffic Control

The introduction of the AI-powered ATCS is part of a broader initiative to modernise Bengaluru’s traffic management. These advanced systems respond in real-time to traffic conditions, adjusting signal timings based on the volume of vehicles at any given moment. Of the 41 junctions, seven have been equipped with entirely new signals, while 34 have seen an upgrade from older camera-based systems. The system has already been implemented at key junctions like NR Square, Town Hall, and Minerva Circle.

The adaptive system operates in three modes, each suited to different traffic needs:

  1. Manual Mode: Allows traffic police to override the system during emergencies, such as when ambulances or VIP vehicles require priority.
  2. Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC): Uses computer vision-enabled cameras to monitor the number of vehicles at a junction and adjusts signal timings accordingly.
  3. ATCS Mode: Synchronises traffic signals across multiple junctions, ensuring smoother flow of traffic over a larger area.

Expansion of AI Traffic Systems

By the end of December, the city will see 165 junctions fully automated with AI-powered signals. This will include the installation of new signals at 29 junctions and upgrades to 136 existing systems. The expansion is primarily focused on the southern and western parts of the city, where ongoing metro and road infrastructure projects are not expected to interfere with the new system.

Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), MN Anucheth, highlighted the city’s multi-phase plan, emphasising the goal to fully automate signals across all major junctions by the end of the year. This, he said, will significantly improve traffic flow and reduce waiting times at busy intersections.

Synchronisation of Signals

The ATCS has already proven its effectiveness in synchronising traffic signals across several important roads. KR Road and Rose Garden Road were the first to benefit from synchronised signals, allowing smoother travel along these routes. More recently, Hudson Circle has also seen the implementation of Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC) mode, which uses real-time data to adjust signals based on the actual flow of vehicles.

In addition to the 41 ATCS-equipped junctions, there are around 405 signalised intersections in Bengaluru, including 32 with camera-based adaptive signals. A further 28 junctions are under the Directorate of Urban Land Transport’s (DULT) ‘MODERATO’ project, which also aims to introduce automated traffic signals to help reduce congestion.

Traffic Challenges in Bengaluru

Bengaluru has long been plagued by severe traffic congestion, especially in areas where ongoing infrastructure projects like metro construction and road expansion are underway. There are currently around 900 junctions across the city where traffic is managed manually by police officers, which has been a significant bottleneck for smooth traffic flow.

With the city’s population and vehicle numbers continuing to rise, the need for a more efficient traffic management system has never been greater. As of September, the city has 405 signalised junctions, with the goal of surpassing 500 by the end of the year. This includes the addition of 165 new ATCS systems, as well as 50 adaptive signals being added to the city’s traffic infrastructure.

Advantages of the New System

The AI-driven ATCS system offers several advantages over manual traffic management:

  • Improved Traffic Flow: By responding dynamically to real-time traffic conditions, the ATCS can reduce bottlenecks and ensure smoother transitions at intersections.
  • Reduced Waiting Times : Synchronised signals mean fewer stops for motorists, allowing for a more continuous flow of traffic along major routes.
  • Efficiency in Emergency Situations: With manual override capabilities, traffic police can prioritise emergency vehicles, reducing response times in critical situations.
  • Reduced Manual Intervention: Traffic police officers, who are often required to manually manage traffic at busy junctions, can now focus on other essential tasks.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of the ATCS is part of a broader strategy to modernise Bengaluru’s traffic management. In addition to the AI-driven signals, other initiatives like the DULT’s ‘MODERATO’ project are expected to further enhance the city’s traffic infrastructure.

While the introduction of these new systems is expected to alleviate some of the current congestion issues, the city’s long-term traffic challenges will also require continued investment in public transportation, road infrastructure, and metro expansion projects.

As Bengaluru moves towards becoming a more digitally advanced city, the integration of AI in its traffic management systems is a positive step towards improving the daily commute for millions of its residents.