Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started the trial phase of using artificial intelligence and simulators to streamline the demand for Metro services.

The technology would assist in crowd management during peak hours at some Metro stations or public events.

“The project aims to develop a smart and interactive system (that is) responsive to the needs of the Metro riders. The project seeks to propose convenient transit timing for Metro riders by understanding the demand pattern of the service and adjusting it to control crowding,” said Ahmed Mahboub, Executive Director of Smart Services, Corporate Technology Support Services Sector.

“We had experimented the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to propose specific transit timings for riders in a bid to streamline the demand for the Metro service and spread it over longer durations. The process requires the development of a model to simulate train journeys throughout the day. It uses nol cards data, Metro demand algorithms, and a screen to display and understand detailed passenger journeys,” explained Mahboub.

Results of the pilot project indicate that trains serve about “40-80 per cent” of those at certain stations during peak times and public events.

“The simulative model showed that passengers’ flow during peak hours will result in spells of congestions and longer waiting time for riders before boarding the Metro. The experimental use of artificial intelligence reduced the congestion from 40 per cent to 60 per cent, and the waiting time to 30 minutes,” said Mahboub.

The artificial intelligence technology helped redistribute the demand to “improve the customers’ experience by offering them definite timings for boarding”. This enabled them to reach their destinations on time.

“These deliverables are currently under review to verify their feasibility and consider undertaking the project in the near future.”

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