DMP plans semi-automatic traffic signals at 120 intersections in 6 months

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) plans to introduce semi-automatic traffic signal systems at 120 major intersections across the capital within the next six months as part of a technology-driven initiative to improve traffic management and ease congestion.

DMP Additional Commissioner (Traffic) Anisur Rahman disclosed the plan, saying semi-automatic signals are already operational at 12 intersections and will be expanded to more than 60 within the next month.

"We are gradually introducing semi-automatic traffic signals across the capital. At present, the system is operational at 12 locations, and within the next month it will be extended to more than 60. Our target is to bring the city's 120 key intersections under this system within the next six months," he said.

Anisur said the new system allows traffic personnel to manually adjust signal timings whenever necessary, enabling them to respond to real-time traffic conditions.

In the longer term, however, the DMP aims to introduce a fully automated, algorithm-based traffic management system similar to those used in developed countries.

"In advanced countries, traffic signals are interconnected and managed through algorithms that automatically determine signal timings based on vehicle flow. Bangladesh's road network was not originally designed to support such a system, so we are introducing a semi-automatic system as a practical solution before moving towards full automation," he said.

Anisur said the DMP had also implemented traffic diversions and engineering modifications at 75 locations across the capital over the past year despite operating with limited manpower.

"Rather than simply increasing the number of traffic personnel, scientific road design, diversions and engineering modifications have proved more effective in reducing congestion. We have not received reports of any major new traffic problems following these changes, while feedback from the field has been encouraging," he added.

According to Anisur, the DMP's traffic division has around 4,100 personnel, although only 3,600 to 3,700 are on active duty each day because of leave, training and illness.

The force manages traffic at 668 points across the capital, with around 25 major intersections operating round the clock on a three-shift basis.

Rahman cited the intersection near Asad Gate on Manik Mia Avenue as an example of successful traffic engineering. He said redesigning vehicle movement by introducing a left-turn and U-turn arrangement had significantly improved traffic flow while reducing the need for traffic personnel.

Looking ahead, he said the DMP also plans to introduce GPS-based traffic monitoring and other smart technologies to modernise traffic management.

He acknowledged that heavy rainfall, road blockades, demonstrations, VIP movements and uncoordinated utility works continue to disrupt traffic in the capital.

"Traffic congestion cannot be solved by the traffic police alone. Effective coordination among all relevant agencies and responsible road use by the public are equally important. Development works should be carried out in coordination with the traffic department to avoid unnecessary disruption," he said.