Bangkok trials smart traffic system at 72 city intersections
AI-powered lights take control as city battles gridlock with futuristic traffic tech
Bangkok’s notorious traffic nightmare could finally be easing, thanks to a new ‘smart’ system that promises to slash waiting times and get drivers moving faster.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) rolled out its high-tech Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) at 72 key intersections in a bold bid to revolutionise the capital’s congested roads. The trial initiative aims to replace outdated timer-based lights and manual traffic control with a smarter, faster solution powered by artificial intelligence.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt was spotted overseeing the implementation of ATCS on Sukhumvit 101/1, where he revealed the current reality of the city’s chaotic road management.
“Right now, about 500 intersections in Bangkok rely on either countdown timers or traffic police to manage the flow.”
Those countdown timers? They mean you’re stuck with a fixed signal pattern, regardless of the traffic situation.
“If you see a timer at the lights, that’s a clue the system isn’t reacting to actual traffic conditions,” Chadchart explained.
That’s where ATCS comes in. Using smart cameras and computer algorithms, the system collects real-time data to adjust green-light durations based on actual demand. In short, it gives more time to crowded lanes and less to empty ones, a no-brainer move in a city where every second counts.
So far, the smart lights have been switched on along some of Bangkok’s busiest arteries, including Sukhumvit, Phetchaburi, Rama IV, Phahon Yothin, and Silom roads.
The results? Promising.
Chadchart revealed the system has already improved traffic flow by 15% during non-peak hours. However, during Bangkok’s infamous rush hour gridlocks, he admitted traffic police may still need to step in.
But there’s more good news for drivers. The BMA isn’t stopping at just 72 intersections. Plans are already in place to expand the ATCS network to another 200 locations next year, Bangkok Post reported.
As the capital grapples with worsening congestion and pollution, this tech-forward traffic overhaul could be the beginning of smoother days for commuters and a smarter future for Bangkok’s streets.
In a city where stop-and-go is a way of life, this system might finally help Bangkok hit the green light on progress.
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