The implementation of AI has been credited with the sharp decline in the number of accidents caused by fatigued bus drivers on Dubai’s congested roads.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) integrated its vehicles with its Raqeeb System, which monitors the well-being of 300 bus drivers. The AI-powered system was able to detect five-eight cases of exhaustion or a lack of attentiveness on a daily basis.
The power of this system is the preventative benefits it provides, and it has subsequently led to a 65% reduction in the number of fatigue-related accidents overall according to a statement from the RTA.
Due to the success of the program on its buses, the RTA has taken the decision to introduce the system into two of its Dubai Trams on a trial basis.
Raqeeb is just one of 75 ambitious AI programs that have been rolled out as part of the Dubai’s Smart City and Artificial Intelligence programs.
Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, Mattar Al Tayer expressed his delight at the success of the AI program, and reiterated his support for the deployment of smart mobility services.
Al Tayer said, “The RTA supports the transformation of Dubai into a smart city to provide happiness and luxurious living to residents by offering world-class standard services. Given the importance of smart mobility to the concept of smart cities, the RTA has prioritized the convenience and welfare of people when planning and constructing its projects."
Some of the other eye-catching AI projects being rolled out include surveillance cameras in more than 10,000 taxis, which contributed to an 83 per cent rise in customer satisfaction, according to the RTA.
Another AI project to monitor bus lanes has reduced the number of bus lane violations by 83 per cent and improved the punctuality of buses by 20 per cent.
In addition to this, a smart pedestrian signaling system has also been introduced in 15 locations, increasing or decreasing the window based on the number of pedestrians looking to cross the road.
Even learner drivers’ skills are being tested using AI technology.
"The RTA has also accomplished the smart yard for testing trainee drivers in 14 locations. Driver testing vehicles have been transformed into smart vehicles capable of detecting the testing manoeuvres and measuring the driver’s response to each of them. The yard is fitted with high-power cameras and sensors connected to a central processor capable of gathering information and working out errors automatically. The system automatically figures out if the test result is fail or pass.”
Earlier this month, the UAE announced the adoption of an eight-point plan to place the country at the forefront of global efforts to develop AI.
The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 will involve the rapidly developing technology being implemented across sections of society, from government services to that of education.