Brian Jeffrey
| A segment of HCM City’s Metro Line No 1. The city is implementing an advanced transportation system to ease traffic issues and enhance safety on the roads. — VNS Photo Nguyễn Diệp |
Võ Khánh Hưng, the deputy head of the transport department, highlighted that the city is prioritizing the development of an intelligent transportation system to alleviate traffic congestion and ensure road safety, aligning with global urban trends.
Recently, the city has made strides in utilizing technology to address traffic violations, yielding positive outcomes.
In the first half of this year, over 1,700 traffic violations were recorded by the city’s transport inspectors, resulting in fines exceeding VNĐ23 billion (over US$903,000).
Notably, a pilot initiative introducing automatic weighing stations has been effective, allowing for fines to be issued even when vehicles are not present. This led to 762 violations, amassing fines of more than VNĐ16.9 billion ($663,600).
There was a significant reduction of 91% in overweight vehicles after the six-month trial of these automatic weighing devices.
The image-based penalty system also enabled the detection of 537 passenger transport violations, accumulating fines of over VNĐ675 million ($26,500).
“These outcomes showcase the vital role technology plays in enhancing traffic management and enforcement,” he stated.
The city police are utilizing software to address administrative violations and maintain traffic accident records, aiding in the recovery of stolen vehicles.
Additionally, the transport department has launched a digital transformation scheme alongside a project aimed at creating a smart transport system by 2024, prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) and an integrated system to utilize data analysis for better traffic management.
Currently, around 1,000 cameras are installed to monitor traffic signals, with over 200 capable of automated control, ensuring efficient traffic flow.
Võ Khánh Hưng emphasized the need for continuous monitoring through camera systems, regulating traffic via lights, and managing infringements through surveillance footage.
“This necessitates flexible adjustments in technology applications to enhance traffic management,” he explained.
For instance, traffic light timings may require tweaking to help ease traffic flow, he noted.
Associate Professor Vũ Anh Tuấn from the Vietnamese-Germany Transportation Research Centre pointed out that establishing an interconnected and intelligent transport network is essential for better traffic management and improving air quality.
“The rise of electric vehicles will contribute to lowering pollution from traffic while enhancing road safety,” he added.
However, challenges related to planning, policy, and the skills of the engineering workforce must be addressed, he cautioned.
“It requires collective efforts from the entire community to build a sustainable and intelligent transport system,” he remarked.
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| Mai Chí Thọ Street in HCM City’s Thủ Đức city features cameras for monitoring traffic. — VNS Photo Nguyễn Diệp |
Technological solutions for traffic management have evolved alongside smart vehicle advancements, catering to urban needs for cohesive and sustainable transport systems.
Utilizing advanced technologies like edge computing (EC), AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and 4G/5G is essential in establishing a smart transportation framework, according to Trần Kiên, deputy general director of Advantech Việt Nam Technology.
AI technology can recognize faces, license plates, public transit, and distinguish road objects from images or videos, he explained.
“AI also aids in data analysis to empower operators to make well-informed decisions, minimizing risks and optimizing time and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in traffic management,” he added.
Alongside infrastructure development, the city has initiated projects that incorporate technology in traffic management, according to Võ Khánh Hưng.
The Urban Traffic Management Centre in Thủ Đức city is a prime example, demonstrating initial success, he noted.
The city is investing in intelligent traffic management systems (ITS), Geographic Information System (GIS) applications for infrastructure data management, and AI for traffic light adjustments.
It’s also advancing smart public transportation with electric buses and metro lines, in collaboration with educational institutions to nurture skilled talent.
Bùi Xuân Cường, vice chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, acknowledged the city’s achievements but also recognized persistent challenges, particularly in unifying technology systems and traffic data.
“Establishing a shared database poses significant challenges that demand close cooperation among relevant entities,” he remarked.
The city continually encourages technology use in traffic management, enforcement, and compliance efforts.
They have approved investments in camera systems and upgrades to traffic signal controls, along with directives relating to data systems and vehicle tracking technology for effective transport management.
The inaugural metro line is on track to commence commercial operations in December, marking a significant step toward an intelligent transport network.
Moving forward, the city aims to enhance its transportation framework to improve residents’ quality of life and maintain its role as a key socio-economic and cultural hub in the country. — VNS
