Smart Variable Messaging Systems to help city traffic

Bengalureans can now breathe a sigh of relief. BBMP is set to install Smart Variable Messaging Systems (SVMS) in arterial, sub-arterial and other major roads in the city.

The SVMS act as an information centre for vehicle users providing live traffic updates, journey time, distances, traffic density, alternative routes, weather and emergency directions.

The SVMS project will be taken up with the help of state government funds, at a cost of Rs 50 crore.

“SVMS will provide real-time traffic updates and will suggest alternative routes with minimum traffic density. The state government will fund the project through BBMP,” said an at the Traffic Engineering Cell.

In 2010, Bengaluru traffic police installed 20 LED signboards under the B-Track project which have not been upgraded since. In September 2019, for the first time, the state government installed SVMS in Mysuru making it the first city in Karnataka to have such a system.

“The BBMP has called for a Detailed Project Report. Signboards will be set up along high-density corridors,” the official added.

VVIP movement, traffic norms, traffic diversions, temperature, highway patrols, nearest fire station and ambulance availability will be displayed. “SVMS will measure 2.5×5 feet, with a colourful display unlike LED signages. The message will be visible to motorists at least from a distance of 100 meters. Kannada and English will be the languages,” said the official.