In a bid to revolutionize urban transportation and tackle traffic congestion, the government has adopted an innovative "Intelligent Transport System" with the support of a $14.6 million grant from Japan.

This cutting-edge system, powered by Japanese technology called Moderato, encompasses the installation of signal lights at 20 strategically chosen intersections and traffic sensors connected to a fiber network, all aimed at streamlining traffic flow in Kigali City. The project aligns with the introduction of a Dedicated Bus Lane (DBL) system that will utilize two lanes of the CBD-Sonotubes-Giporoso road during peak hours (early morning and evening) to alleviate traffic congestion, primarily benefiting public transport.

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The New Times looks at four major challenges in the transport sector that this technology addresses.

Mobility Enhancement and Traffic Decongestion

As Kigali's population continues to grow, so does the number of vehicles on the roads, exacerbating traffic woes during peak hours, impacting both private and public transportation, according to the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Uzziel Ndagijimana. The Intelligent Transport System, equipped with enhanced signal lights and traffic sensors at 20 critical junctions, will empower a centralized control center to monitor and coordinate traffic flow.

This coordination aims to distribute speed and travel time evenly across various directions, significantly easing congestion. Simultaneously, the Dedicated Bus Lane (DBL) will reduce commute times for mass transit during peak hours, enhancing overall mobility.

Reducing Carbon Emissions

Mayor of Kigali City, Pudence Rubingisa, predicts that the reduction in time spent by vehicles in traffic will result in a notable decrease in carbon emissions.

The project aims to quantify the specific reduction in emissions, potentially leading to the acquisition of carbon credits, contributing to national emissions reduction targets and fostering a healthier urban environment.

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Furthermore, 12 pollution monitors have already been strategically placed across Kigali, including bus parks, to provide real-time information on carbon emissions.

Identifying Alternative Routes

The Intelligent Transport System is anticipated to offer valuable insights into alternative routes for motorists to circumvent traffic jams and reach their destinations more efficiently. Mayor Rubingisa emphasizes the importance of optimizing existing road networks while acknowledging that some road expansions may be necessary.

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Capacity Building

Rubingisa also emphasizes the need for a dedicated team responsible for implementing this comprehensive project. Initial feasibility studies have been conducted, but the project's scale necessitates the involvement of additional personnel at various levels of execution. This will require capacity building to ensure effective utilization of the technology.