Japanese smart signals failed at seven traffic signals in Bengaluru

05 Jul 2024 CW Team

Trials of the Japanese technology-powered smart signals in Bengaluru encountered issues at seven traffic junctions, delaying the project's full implementation, according to officials.

The adaptive signal project, called "Management of Origin-Destination Related Adaptation for Traffic Optimisation" (MODERATO), is funded by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and aims to be deployed at 28 junctions. In the first phase, 10 junctions were tested, including Shoolay Circle, Kensington Road Junction, and the 80 Feet Road Junction in Indiranagar. However, successful trials were reported only at three junctions: 100 Feet Road Junction in Indiranagar, Mother Teresa Junction on Richmond Road, and Opera House Junction on Residency Road.

A traffic police source noted that the signal systems need adjustments to fit the city's traffic conditions, leading to the trial glitches. Currently, there is no mechanism to manually override the systems in emergencies, such as creating a corridor for ambulances.

Officials from the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) stated that the systems are being fine-tuned at 25 junctions, with trial operations for the remaining three junctions expected to commence shortly. The trials will continue until the end of July for further observation. The DULT clarified that manual control provisions are available to facilitate emergency vehicle movement.

Earlier this year, signal trials at the Kensington Road-Murphy Road junction and Queen's Circle faced issues, raising concerns about the system's reliability in the local context. The project, first announced in 2014, saw delays due to customs clearance and permissions for civil works. Initial construction began in October 2022, with signal commissioning expected by September 2023. Former DULT Commissioner Manjula V cited these administrative hurdles as reasons for the delay.

Under optimal traffic conditions, the MODERATO signals are projected to reduce vehicle queue lengths by approximately 30% at the junctions.

(Source: Deccan Herald)

Trials of the Japanese technology-powered smart signals in Bengaluru encountered issues at seven traffic junctions, delaying the project's full implementation, according to officials. The adaptive signal project, called Management of Origin-Destination Related Adaptation for Traffic Optimisation (MODERATO), is funded by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and aims to be deployed at 28 junctions. In the first phase, 10 junctions were tested, including Shoolay Circle, Kensington Road Junction, and the 80 Feet Road Junction in Indiranagar. However, successful trials were reported only at three junctions: 100 Feet Road Junction in Indiranagar, Mother Teresa Junction on Richmond Road, and Opera House Junction on Residency Road. A traffic police source noted that the signal systems need adjustments to fit the city's traffic conditions, leading to the trial glitches. Currently, there is no mechanism to manually override the systems in emergencies, such as creating a corridor for ambulances. Officials from the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) stated that the systems are being fine-tuned at 25 junctions, with trial operations for the remaining three junctions expected to commence shortly. The trials will continue until the end of July for further observation. The DULT clarified that manual control provisions are available to facilitate emergency vehicle movement. Earlier this year, signal trials at the Kensington Road-Murphy Road junction and Queen's Circle faced issues, raising concerns about the system's reliability in the local context. The project, first announced in 2014, saw delays due to customs clearance and permissions for civil works. Initial construction began in October 2022, with signal commissioning expected by September 2023. Former DULT Commissioner Manjula V cited these administrative hurdles as reasons for the delay. Under optimal traffic conditions, the MODERATO signals are projected to reduce vehicle queue lengths by approximately 30% at the junctions. (Source: Deccan Herald)

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Infrastructure Transport

07 Oct 2025

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

Infrastructure Transport

07 Oct 2025

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..