Chennai is set to modernize its traffic infrastructure by deploying AI-powered adaptive traffic signals at 165 major junctions across the city, including on arterial roads like Anna Salai, Jawaharlal Nehru Salai, Rajaji Salai, Sardar Patel Road, Kamarajar Salai, and Taylors Road . Unlike traditional systems with fixed cycles of 60–90 seconds, this new system dynamically adjusts green-light durations—up to 120 seconds for busy lanes and as low as 30 seconds for quieter ones—based on real-time traffic data from sensors and AI cameras. Currently, six pilot junctions on EVR Salai are already delivering positive results in reduced queue lengths and faster clearance times.
The adaptive system operates locally at each junction using AI-enabled vehicle detection, while a centralized control hub at the Greater Chennai Traffic Police headquarters monitors city-wide patterns and orchestrates “green corridors” for smoother, uninterrupted traffic flow. Although fully automated, emergency overrides remain possible for ambulances or VIP convoys. Experts caution that the efficiency of the system hinges on accurate sensor data—past experiences in cities like Melbourne and London show how sensor failures can disrupt flow despite advanced systems. If successful, Chennai could emerge as a national benchmark in AI-driven urban mobility.
