Possible Implementation of new Traffic System on Singapore Roads
On March 26th this year, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) begun testing Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera systems on Singapore roads to facilitate enforcement. These camera systems are tested with Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) beacons - aimed to enhance positioning accuracy - at various locations along expressways and major roads.
According to the LTA, “These tests will enable LTA to determine the performance and reliability of such technologies under various real-life environmental and traffic conditions for future traffic management systems which will leverage Global Navigation Satellite System technology.”
The new system is expected to replace the existing Electronic Road Pricing System (ERP) as the latter is becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to maintain. The use of ANPR technology will allow for more flexibility in managing traffic congestion through distance-based road pricing, where motorists will be charged for the distance travelled instead.
As the ANPR and DSRC systems do not require heavy infrastructure, they will be mounted on existing road infrastructure such as lamp posts, overhead bridges and gantries.
Equipment will also be mounted atop vehicles, such as the one shown above. If successful, these systems will expand island-wide for testing.