Taskforce suggests traffic signalling automation

A taskforce has recommended for introducing automatic traffic signalling system in the city for improvement of traffic management to ease congestion, reports BSS.

"Introducing an automatic traffic signalling system is a fundamental prerequisite for any major city worldwide, yet attempts to implement such a system in the mega city like Dhaka have historically faced challenges, often collapsing due to resistance from vested quarters," according to the report of the taskforce.

Education and Planning Adviser Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud handed over the taskforce report on "Re-strategising the Economy and Mobilising Resources for Equitable and Sustainable Development" to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka Thursday.

The report said effective traffic management is crucial for alleviating congestion and improving the overall flow of vehicles and pedestrians' movement on city roads.

This initiative should be a "low-hanging fruit" because it must be actionable and capable for yielding immediate benefits, the report mentioned.

"By utilising advanced traffic signal technology we can ensure that traffic lights respond to real-time conditions, thereby establishing a much-needed discipline to Dhaka's chaotic transportation network," the report said.

The taskforce suggested transition of the city's commuting system to a single-operator bus franchise.