In an effort to reduce traffic congestion in the capital, the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA) has introduced a new traffic signal system developed with local technology.
A total of 22 intersections along the High Court–Airport route are scheduled to be equipped with the new signals, of which seven have already been installed.
A two-week trial run of the system began on Sunday (August 31) to assess its effectiveness.
During spot visits in the morning, the new signals were seen in operation at InterContinental Hotel intersection, Banglamotor, Sonargaon, Farmgate, Bijoy Sarani, in front of the Chief Adviser’s Office, and Jahangir Gate.
Control boxes have been placed at each point, and a representative from BUET is overseeing the operation.
The signals can be operated both automatically and manually. At present, some intersections are being tested manually while others are on automatic mode to determine which works more efficiently. However, public awareness of the new system remains low.
Many drivers were seen ignoring the signals, forcing traffic police to rely on hand signals in addition to the lights. At Sonargaon, authorities used loudspeakers to urge pedestrians to use foot overbridges instead of crossing roads haphazardly.
Many drivers expressed confusion over the new system, noting inconsistencies in signal timing and questioning its effectiveness in Dhaka’s traffic conditions.
Traffic Inspector Zahedul Islam, stationed at Banglamotor, acknowledged that public compliance remains a major challenge. He said the system is still at an early stage, so people are not yet accustomed to it. Authorities are working to raise awareness so traffic flows by signals rather than hand gestures.
He also admitted there are some technical issues with the automatic mode, particularly in adjusting timings based on traffic volume, but assured these would be resolved as the system is fine-tuned.
According to the DTCA, once the trial phase concludes and results are reviewed, the new traffic signal system will be rolled out at all 22 intersections along the route.
