Semi-automatic traffic signals to be launched at 7 Dhaka intersections tomorrow

A semi-automatic traffic signaling system will be launched at seven intersections in Dhaka tomorrow (30 August), as part of a two-week pilot project. 

The initiative covers intersections between Shikkha Bhaban and Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Based on the outcome of the pilot programme, the system will gradually be expanded to 15 more intersections.

The Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA) announced the decision in a press note today (29 August), following a meeting held at its office yesterday. 

According to DTCA, the pilot will be carried out at Hotel Intercontinental, Banglamotor, Sonargaon, Farmgate, Bijoy Sarani, the Chief Adviser's Office, and Jahangir Gate intersections. 

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To operate the system, designated police boxes have been set up at these locations, each staffed by a controller, two traffic police operators, and representatives from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet). The signals can be operated both automatically and manually.

Buet has already trained Dhaka Metropolitan Police personnel to manage the new system. During the trial, awareness campaigns for drivers and pedestrians will also be conducted through leaflet distribution and television broadcasts.

The project is part of a broader initiative to install signaling systems at 22 intersections along the High Court-Airport route. The scheme is being implemented under DTCA's coordination, financed by the Dhaka North and South city corporations, with technical support from Buet.

This morning, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser Sheikh Moinuddin, along with officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, the Ministry of Railways, DTCA, the two city corporations, Roads and Highways Department, and Dhaka Metropolitan Police, inspected the Intercontinental to Jahangir Gate route ahead of the pilot launch.