TrafficInfraTech Magazine Linking People Places & Progress
Integration of advanced technologies, proactive surveillance, and innovative traffic control measures have significantly improved the safety, efficiency, and overall experience of commuters using the Noida- Greater Noida expressway.
Noida-Greater Noida expressway serves as a vital transportation route, facilitating the movement of over 80,000 vehicles daily between Greater Noida, Noida and Delhi. However, despite its significance, the expressway had been plagued by various challenges, including fatal accidents, traffic congestion, and incidents of roadside mugging.
The high volume of traffic, primarily consisting of cars and similar vehicles, had contributed to congestion and an increased risk of accidents. Additionally, the expressway’s notoriety for fatal accidents always highlighted significant safety concerns that needed to be addressed urgently.
Moreover, the presence of criminal activities such as roadside mugging further exacerbated the issues faced by commuters using this stretch of road. These security concerns not only affected the safety of travelers but also impact the overall perception of the expressway as a safe and reliable transportation route.
Considering these challenges, Noida Authority decided to implement Advanced Traffic management System (ATMS) in 2014. The contract was awarded to EFKON and got upgraded in 2021.
Sole aim of ATMS has been to implement effective measures aimed at enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and mitigating security risks along the expressway. Such initiatives not only improved the overall commuting experience but also ensured the smooth flow of traffic and enhanced the reputation of the expressway as a vital transportation artery in the region.
Through AI-based video analytics, the system is able to detect potential hazards like over speeding and vehicles parked on the side, allowing for timely preventive actions. Identification of fog-prone areas and installation of temperature sensors helps in early detection and dissemination of information to commuters, thereby reducing accidents caused by poor visibility and road surface conditions.
Innovative traffic control measures such as the shift from spot speed monitoring to average speed solutions is a notable innovation, as it not only reduces accidents caused by erratic speed changes but also contributes to environmental benefits by minimizing carbon emissions due to smoother driving patterns.
The innovative approach of installing GPS chips within batteries and solar panels, along with surveillance in theft-prone areas, successfully eliminated thefts and consequently reduced cases of roadside mugging. This not only enhanced security but also contributed to the overall safety perception of the stretch, said “Rajat Mishra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Director, EFKON India Pvt. Ltd.
EFKON tackled challenges such as power fluctuations and optical fiber cuts due to ongoing construction activities with globally acclaimed design solutions. This ensured the uninterrupted functioning of the traffic management system, critical for maintaining traffic flow and safety.
Talking about the project Dr Lokesh M, IAS, CEO, Noida Authority, said that the total length of Noida-Greater Noida Expressway is 24 km, of which 21km is in Noida and three kilometers in Greater Noida. The expressway goes from Mahamaya Flyover Noida to Pari Chowk Greater Noida. One can reach Greater Noida via Noida-Greater Noida Expressway and further via Yamuna Express to Agra and from Agra to Lucknow via Lucknow Express without stopping.
There are five small and five big underpasses. Equipped with LED lights, the expressway has a width of 150 meters with green belt on either side.
“Direction sign boards have been installed at identified places and emergency boards at accident prone areas. The Noida Authority has made available Police assistance, emergency number boards, cranes and other features needed for safe movement of vehicle,” added Dr. Lokesh.
Under the ISTMS projects, 177 cameras, 60km fiber and eight variable message boards have been installed by Noida Authority for traffic management. In case of accident/disaster, Emergency Call Booth (ECB) help in quick access to central control room. Data from the Speed monitoring cameras is also received and analysed in the Control Centre.
“To facilitate enhanced traffic management service by the police department, we are in the process of installing 108 cameras, 13 public announcement systems and four variable message boards. This work will be completed by March 2024.”
Road safety measures include crash barriers, ambulance and creation of dust free zones with dense plantation.
