Barcodes on traffic signals not tracking jaywalkers
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has cleared the confusion over barcodes recently placed on traffic signals in Dubai and laid to rest rumours circulating on social networking sites that the barcodes could detect jaywalkers, warning pedestrians to look out for the stickers.
In a recent tweet, the RTA stated that the barcodes placed on the traffic signal posts are not hi-tech devices that can track or fine jaywalkers, but are simply part of the authority’s method to track its assets.
Nevertheless, the issue of jaywalking should not be taken lightly as Dubai Police are keeping a close watch on pedestrians. According to the newly revised traffic law, jaywalking can lead to a Dh400 fine. In the first nine months of 2017, Dubai Police recorded the deaths of 27 jaywalkers and the injuries of 239 – a 48 per cent decline as compared to 40 deaths and 246 injuries in 2016.
The smart pedestrian crossings in Dubai can be clearly distinguished by red neon lights across the zebra crossings. The sensor-enabled pedestrian traffic light has been on trial since January 2017, and is expected to reduce run-over accidents in the city.
Currently, most of Dubai’s traffic lights are pre-timed for pedestrians and vehicles, although in many cases it does allocate more green or red time, depending on traffic flow.