techend
By Tanveer Ahmed :
Islamabad is preparing to deploy artificial intelligence-powered traffic signals as part of the Safe City Expansion Project, with authorities aiming to ease congestion, improve road safety and modernise traffic management across the capital.
The initiative was reviewed during a meeting chaired by Director General Safe City and Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Muhammad Haroon Joiya, where officials discussed the project’s implementation strategy and technical requirements.
Representatives from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Safe City technical team attended the meeting to assess operational plans and ensure coordination between the agencies involved in delivering the project.
According to officials, the AI-powered traffic signal system will analyse real-time traffic conditions and automatically adjust signal timings to improve the flow of vehicles at major intersections. The technology is expected to reduce waiting times, minimise congestion and enhance overall traffic discipline.
Muhammad Haroon Joiya instructed the relevant departments to complete the project within the approved timeline and maintain close coordination throughout its implementation. He emphasised that timely execution would be essential to achieving the project’s objectives.
Authorities believe the new system will also improve emergency response by allowing smoother movement for ambulances, fire services and law enforcement vehicles through busy intersections.
The AI-based traffic signals form part of the broader Safe City Expansion Project, which seeks to integrate advanced technologies into Islamabad’s public safety and traffic management infrastructure. The project is designed to strengthen smart policing, enhance surveillance capabilities and improve the efficiency of urban transport systems.
Around the world, cities are increasingly adopting intelligent traffic management systems that use artificial intelligence, cameras and sensors to monitor vehicle movement in real time. These systems can dynamically adjust traffic signals based on congestion levels, reducing delays, lowering fuel consumption and cutting vehicle emissions.
Pakistan has also begun expanding the use of AI in traffic enforcement. Similar initiatives, including AI-powered surveillance cameras and automated e-challan systems, have recently been introduced in several cities to improve compliance with traffic laws and reduce manual enforcement.
Officials say the introduction of intelligent traffic signals represents another step towards transforming Islamabad into a smart city, where technology plays a greater role in managing transport, improving road safety and delivering more efficient public services.
If implemented successfully, the system is expected to provide commuters with shorter travel times, better traffic flow and a safer driving experience while supporting the capital’s long-term urban development strategy.
About The Author
