The Polish capital of Warsaw is planning an expansion of its integrated traffic management system to reduce congestion and make public transport more efficient.

The system is currently in place at 72 intersections in the city centre, incorporating cameras and sensors to detect traffic volumes. The cycles of traffic lights are varied to reduce waiting times and allow traffic to move more freely.

However, this limited deployment means that congestion could increase on streets not covered by the system. Therefore, Warsaw now plans to expand it to some 700 intersections across the city. As well as the expansion, the existing traffic control system will be modernised.

The effect of this, according to Warsaw deputy mayor Jacek Wojciechowicz, will be ‘more effective control and management of vehicle traffic, including public transport.’ This will include ensuring priority for public transport in Warsaw, which includes buses and trams.

Moreover, the system should account for intersections which are managed by Poland’s highway directorate GDDKiA.