MMDA eyeing use of AI for traffic detection
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chair Don Artes holds a meeting with private schools representatives to discuss traffic mitigating measures on perennial choke points near big schools at the MMDA office on Thursday, July 3. (Photo: Noy Morcoso/INQUIRER.net)
MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced Thursday that it is eyeing to use artificial intelligence (AI) through the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along the streets for traffic detection.
MMDA chair Don Artes said this in a press conference on Thursday, following the switch in traffic management through its “adaptive signaling system.”
With the new signaling system, a ground loop detector is currently being used, where sensors are embedded in roads that determine the traffic volume.
READ: MMDA completes switch to adaptive traffic lights
According to Artes, the plan of using video directors aims to improve traffic flows in Metro Manila.
“In the future, hopefully by next year, we will use CCTV, instead of loop detectors,” Artes said.
“Because it is more efficient, can cover longer or more vehicles, more accurate, and less susceptible to damage,” he added.
The MMDA chief expounded that the video detector is less susceptible to damage from roadworks, harsh weather, and physical interference compared to the ground loop detector.
READ: MMDA starts installing NCAP CCTVs in some NCR private schools
He added that with the AI technology, the agency can get “additional information about vehicles, such as volume, speed, direction, and license plate number.”
The MMDA announced last week that it has removed traffic light countdown timers in 96 intersections in Metro Manila, as these were replaced with the adaptive signaling system. /mr
