By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

Addressing the Traffic Light Malfunction at Baibureh Road, Ferry Junction: A Call for Urgent Improvements

The installation of new traffic lights at the Baibureh Road, Ferry Junction, represents a significant step towards modernizing Sierra Leone’s Road infrastructure. Such improvements are crucial for managing the growing volume of traffic in key parts of Freetown. However, despite the good intentions behind the initiative by the government and the relevant line ministries, a pressing issue has emerged concerning the functionality and effectiveness of these traffic lights. This article will delve into the issues with the newly installed system, compare it to traffic light management in other countries, and make a case for urgent improvements.

The Positive Shift: A Step in the Right Direction

There is no doubt that the government’s efforts to improve the city’s traffic control systems should be recognized. The new traffic lights installed at the Baibureh Road junction are an effort to address the growing transportation demands in this central area, where congestion has been a long-standing issue. With more vehicles on the road, managing traffic effectively has become essential not only to reduce delays but also to ensure safety for commuters, pedestrians, and residents. The installation of traffic lights at such key locations signifies the government’s commitment to improving urban mobility.

The Problem: A Countdown That Doesn’t Match the Flow

However, despite these admirable intentions, the functioning of the newly installed traffic lights has raised concerns. The lights use a countdown timer system rather than adapting to the actual flow of traffic, leading to several inefficiencies that are now becoming apparent on a daily basis.

In most developed countries, traffic lights are controlled by sensor systems that detect the presence and movement of vehicles at intersections. These sensors enable the traffic lights to adjust dynamically to the real-time flow of traffic, allowing green lights to remain longer when traffic is heavy, and to turn red faster when traffic is light or no vehicles are present. The system helps reduce wait times, minimizes congestion, and promotes smoother traffic flow.

However, at the Baibureh Road junction, the traffic lights operate on a static countdown basis. This creates unnecessary delays, even when there is little to no traffic waiting in any direction. There are instances when vehicles are not moving, but the lights continue their countdown as if they are still accommodating an influx of cars. Similarly, there are times when no vehicles are present on any of the roads, yet the countdown continues to run, further contributing to inefficiency and frustration.

Consequences: Confusion and Disregard for the Signals

This misalignment between the countdown and actual traffic flow has led to several consequences, particularly when it comes to driver behaviour. Drivers, frustrated by the long periods of waiting despite there being little or no traffic in some lanes, have begun ignoring the traffic signals altogether. This results in a chaotic situation where vehicles proceed through intersections when the light is red, increasing the risk of accidents.

Moreover, the inefficiency of the countdown system contributes to traffic bottlenecks, which are particularly problematic during peak hours. Instead of allowing the system to adjust to the volume of vehicles on the road, the static countdown forces vehicles to stop or remain idle unnecessarily, creating more congestion and extending commute times for all road users.

The Solution: Implementing Sensor-Based Systems for Smarter Traffic Management

To address the ongoing traffic issues at this junction, it is imperative that the government take swift action and adopt a more advanced traffic light management system. A sensor-based system, as already used in other countries, offers several benefits. This approach works by detecting the presence of vehicles through embedded sensors in the road or through video surveillance, allowing traffic lights to change dynamically based on real-time data.

With a sensor-based system, the green lights would stay on longer in the lanes where cars are moving, while the system would rapidly adjust if traffic in any direction becomes clear. This system is not only more efficient but also results in better traffic flow, reducing unnecessary waiting times for motorists and minimizing fuel consumption.

A Call for Urgency and Action

It is crucial that the authorities act quickly to rectify the traffic light malfunction at Baibureh Road. The current countdown system is causing unnecessary delays, confusion, and frustration among drivers. To ensure that the traffic lights fulfil their intended purpose of improving road safety and reducing congestion, the Ministry of Transport, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, should prioritize the installation of a sensor-based system that adapts to traffic flow in real-time.

This change will help maintain the integrity of the traffic management system, increase driver compliance, and ultimately ensure safer and more efficient travel for all who use this busy junction.

The recent improvements to Freetown’s traffic infrastructure, exemplified by the new traffic lights at Baibureh Road, are an important step forward. However, as with any public infrastructure project, continuous monitoring and timely interventions are necessary to ensure these systems meet the expectations of the public. Adopting sensor-based technology for traffic light control would not only make the system more efficient but also bring Freetown’s traffic management in line with best practices observed around the world. Given the current malfunction, urgent attention is required to optimize the traffic lights, ensuring they effectively serve both the city and its citizens.