Hong Kong’s Transport Department announced Friday its plans to roll out an advanced smart traffic system across the territory following a successful pilot in Tung Chung, which demonstrably reduced vehicle wait times and earned official recognition for innovation. The system, known as the Tung Chung Area Real-Time Traffic Light Adjustment System, secured an Award for Excellence in the Smart Mobility (Smart Traffic) category at the esteemed 2025 Hong Kong ICT Awards, underscoring its operational effectiveness since its launch mid-last year.
The technology is credited with significantly improving traffic flow in the test area. Officials confirmed that vehicles passing through equipped intersections saw their average waiting time drop by an estimated 5% to 10%. Building on this positive outcome, the Transport Department is now preparing to implement this sophisticated signaling technology at approximately 50 suitable, independently controlled intersections across Hong Kong, with installation and testing scheduled to commence progressively in 2026.
Leveraging AI for Dynamic Flow
The core of the system lies in its innovative “dual-layer control” concept, which allows traffic signals to be dynamically managed at both the individual intersection level and across the entire regional network simultaneously. This integrated approach enables the system to continuously calculate and implement the most optimal light timing based on prevailing traffic conditions throughout the area.
Sensors deployed at crosswalks and along roadways feed real-time volume data—encompassing both vehicular traffic and pedestrian movement—into an artificial intelligence engine. The AI analyzes these inputs instantaneously, adjusting the green light duration to efficiently allocate time for vehicles and pedestrians, thereby minimizing delays and maximizing operational efficiency at busy junctions.
Implementing advanced, reactive signal control marks a critical step in modernizing the city’s infrastructure and addressing persistent congestion issues. Unlike traditional fixed-time signaling, which operates on predetermined cycles regardless of actual demand, the smart system reacts minute-by-minute to reduce bottlenecks as they form.
Phased Expansion and Future Impact
The department’s decision to scale up the project demonstrates a commitment to leveraging data-driven technology for urban management. The gradual rollout beginning in 2026 is expected to transform traffic management practices across Hong Kong’s densest neighborhoods, offering commuters, commercial vehicles, and pedestrians a smoother, more predictable travel experience.
Should the citywide expansion yield similar results to the Tung Chung pilot, the potential implications are substantial. A 5% to 10% reduction in wait times translates directly into less idling, lower carbon emissions, and increased productivity.
Industry analysts suggest that the success of this intelligent transportation system could serve as a model for other highly dense urban centers worldwide grappling with complex traffic patterns. The Transport Department will closely monitor the initial phases of deployment to iron out any necessary technical and logistical adjustments before full operational launch across all 50 selected sites. This strategic investment in smart infrastructure highlights Hong Kong’s dedication to maintaining its status as a leading smart city.
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