Introduction
Introduction
Introduction
Abstract .......................................................................................................................................... …
Chapter 1: Introduction…….…………………………..…………………………………….……..
1.1 Background……………..……………………………………………………………….………
1.2 Statement of the Problem……………………………………………………………….……….
1.3 Research Aims and Objectives……….………………………………………………….……...
1.3.1 Research Aims………………………………………………………………………...
1.3.2 Research Objectives…………………………………………………………………..
1.4 Why it is Well-Motivated………………………...…………….……………………………….
1.5 Significance of the Study…………………………………………………………….………….
1.6 Scope and Limitations…………………………………………………………………………..
1.6.1 Scope………………………………………………………………………………….
1.6.2 Limitations…………………………………………………………………………….
1.7 Thesis Structure……..…………………………………………………………………………..
ABSTRACT
The Gambia has had traffic congestion and road safety issues for years. The first problem is
inadequate roads and poor traffic control. Road accidents are the order of the day. Traffic
congestion is one of the crucial complications in urban cities in The Gambia. This needs to be
addressed to improve traffic flow, control, and operation. The ever-increasing nature makes it
imperative to know the road traffic density in real time for better signal control and effective
traffic management. There can be different causes of congestion in traffic like insufficient
capacity, unrestrained demand, large Red-Light delays, etc. This project studies the reports of the
use of smart technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve road safety while ushering
in a new era of traffic management.
While insufficient capacity and unrestrained demand are somewhere interrelated, the delay of
respective light is hard coded and not dependent on traffic. Therefore, the need for simulating
and optimizing traffic control to better accommodate this increasing demand arises. In recent
years, image processing and surveillance systems have been widely used in traffic
management for traveler information, ramp metering, and updates in real-time. The traffic
density estimation can also be achieved using Image Processing. This project presents the
method to use live image feed from the cameras at traffic junctions for real-time traffic density
calculation using image processing. This system employs YOLOv5 and AlexNet V3
Convolutional neural network pre-trained model to accurately detect the number of vehicles
present on the road and average Vehicle Area and identify emergency vehicles in real-time. It
also focuses on the algorithm for switching the traffic lights according to vehicle density on the
road, thereby aiming at reducing the traffic congestion on roads which will help lower the
number of accidents. In turn, it will provide safe transit to people and reduce fuel
consumption and waiting time. It will also provide significant data which will help in future
road planning and analysis. In further stages, multiple traffic lights can be synchronized with
each other with the aim of even less traffic congestion and free flow of traffic. The vehicles
are detected by the system through images instead of using electronic sensors embedded in the
pavement. A camera will be placed alongside the traffic light to capture image sequences. Image
processing is a better technique to control the state change of the traffic light. It shows that it
can decrease traffic congestion and avoid the time being wasted by a green light on an empty
road. It is also more reliable in estimating vehicle presence because it uses actual traffic images.
It visualizes the practicality, so it functions much better than those systems that rely on the
detection of the vehicles’ metal content. The system is essential for efficient traffic management,
and this system uses complex algorithms to reliably detect and monitor several lanes, including
emergency lanes. It also uses pedestrian detection techniques to make pedestrian crossings safer
and more efficient. To complete this project, various technological tools were used such as
Python, OpenCV libraries, and Anaconda IDE.
Keywords: Road safety, traffic congestion, smart technologies, traffic lights, traffic management,
image processing, YOLOv5, Alexnet V3 Convolutional Neural Network.
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1. Introduction
Urban transport problems are a worldwide problem. The Gambia, like many other developing
countries, faces numerous challenges in traffic management and road safety. These challenges
include inadequate infrastructure, lack of traffic monitoring systems, and limited resources for
effective traffic management. The country has poor roads. Due to this, traffic accidents and
congestion are very common. Urban communities have a notable issue of fixed time cycles for
traffic signals at crossing points. Small activities like stopping a vehicle at an intersection or a
vehicle breaking the traffic signal cause a chain reaction which at last prompts colossal car
influxes. This is backed by a study done by Dr. Gabor Orosz of the University of Exeter [1].
1.1 Background of Road Safety and Traffic Management System in The Gambia
According to statistics, the Gambia globally ranked among the 4th countries with the highest
number of road accidents. Based on the statistics obtained from the police from the year 2011 to
2021, about 121 people die annually as a result of road traffic accidents in the Gambia. The
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situation seems to be worsening looking at the statistics for 2021, when a total of 1218 road
crashes occurred, with 155 people deaths and 440 people sustaining serious injuries.
It is estimated that each year, road traffic deaths and injuries cost the Gambia over two billion
dalasi through treatment costs, loss of productivity, pain, and ongoing suffering. This was
revealed by Ebrima Colley, Deputy Permanent Secretary-Technical at the Ministry of Transport,
Works and Infrastructure, during a day-long sensitization workshop on road safety for National
Assembly Members held on Tuesday, 27th December 2022 at the Senegambia Beach Hotel [3].
The Gambia's road network is relatively underdeveloped, with many roads in poor condition and
inadequate traffic management systems. Additionally, the country has a high number of second-
hand vehicles, which may be poorly maintained and contribute to the high rate of accidents [4].
Road traffic accidents occurred as a result of faulty driving during the period under review. This
suggests that most drivers are either careless or unqualified. This could be affiliated with the
inappropriate issuance of driving licenses. To reduce road traffic accidents, there is a need to
establish well-equipped driving schools.
The Gambia, characterized by its vibrant communities and diverse road networks, faces
multifaceted challenges in the realm of road safety and traffic management. Rapid urbanization,
coupled with the complexities of a growing population, demands innovative strategies that extend
beyond traditional approaches. The pressing need for a comprehensive and adaptive system to
address the unique nuances of Gambian roads propels this research into the forefront of AI-driven
interventions.
The challenges posed by urban traffic congestion and the need for efficient traffic control and
operation. Traffic congestion is a common issue in urban areas, leading to delays, increased travel
times, economic costs, and environmental impacts. To tackle these challenges, various
approaches and technologies have been developed to optimize traffic flow and improve
emergency response times.
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Current road safety measures face limitations in timely accident detection, adaptive traffic signal
control, and optimized emergency response, contributing to persistent hazards on Gambian roads.
The absence of a comprehensive and technologically advanced system leaves the road
infrastructure susceptible to congestion, accidents, and delays in emergency services. This critical
gap in road safety measures necessitates a paradigm shift, calling for innovative solutions that can
adapt to the unique dynamics of Gambian roads.
Moreover, the lack of localized and context-aware solutions further exacerbates the road safety
dilemma. Generic traffic management systems, bereft of an understanding of local nuances, fail
to provide tailored interventions that resonate with the specific challenges and needs of The
Gambia.
In light of these pressing concerns, this project identifies a critical need for a cutting-edge
approach to traffic management and road safety enhancement, specifically through the
incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions. The complexities of Gambian roads
demand a sophisticated and adaptive system that harnesses the power of AI to predict, prevent,
and respond to traffic-related challenges in real-time.
The overarching problem, therefore, lies in the absence of a comprehensive, context-aware, and
technologically advanced approach to traffic management and road safety in The Gambia. This
project aims to fill this void by investigating and implementing AI solutions that not only align
with the unique characteristics of Gambian roads but also set a precedent for the integration of
technology to enhance road safety in developing nations.
The paper’s objective is to develop advanced traffic management solutions tailored to The
Gambia's unique traffic dynamics. This will involve exploring and creating artificial intelligence
algorithms and machine learning techniques, specifically focusing on the use of Convolutional
Neural Networks (CNN) such as YOLOv5. The ultimate aim is to enhance real-time traffic flow
and alleviate congestion by leveraging cutting-edge image processing techniques. The study aims
to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in traffic management and the application of
artificial intelligence in addressing traffic challenges, with a specific focus on the context of The
Gambia.
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The paper will focus on the implementation of cutting-edge computer vision technologies to
detect accidents in real-time, with the aim of enhancing road safety and reducing the incidence of
accidents on Gambian roads. An important aspect of this study will be the exploration of the
application of pre-trained Convolutional Neural Network models to improve the precision and
accuracy of vehicle detection. By leveraging these advanced technological tools, it is anticipated
that the paper will contribute significantly to the development of effective traffic management
solutions tailored to the unique traffic dynamics of The Gambia. This approach aligns with the
broader objective of leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to address
traffic challenges. Moreover, the study will involve comprehensive data collection and analysis
of traffic patterns, road infrastructure, and driver behavior to provide valuable insights for
enhancing traffic control and management in The Gambia.
The utilization of YOLOv5-based predictive models can improve emergency response routes in
real-time traffic conditions, leading to swift and effective services for accidents and emergencies.
This will have a positive impact on road safety and accident rates. Through precise monitoring of
traffic flow, alleviation of congestion, and the application of advanced computer vision
technologies alongside intelligent traffic control measures, it is possible to establish a safer
transportation system that benefits both residents and visitors. Implementation of these strategies
not only enhances road safety but also contributes to the overall development of transportation
infrastructure in The Gambia while improving the quality of life for its citizens. The research
seeks to enhance tailored traffic control solutions suited to The Gambia's unique patterns by
analyzing traffic flows, utilizing artificial intelligence algorithms, and developing customized
approaches aimed at accurately monitoring traffic movement, decreasing congestion, as well as
augmenting road safety through sophisticated computer vision technologies coupled with
intelligent traffic control measures - thus creating a safer and more efficient transportation system
in The Gambia.
The paper seeks to examine traffic flow, road infrastructure, and driver conduct in The Gambia.
By employing AI algorithms such as YOLOv5 by leveraging its speed and AlexNet V3’s
accuracy, the goal is to create a thorough system for monitoring and analyzing real-time traffic.
This will result in a prompt understanding of vehicle movements on roads and ultimately improve
traffic regulation and governance in The Gambia. Incorporating predictive models based on
YOLOv5 will optimize emergency response routes under live traffic conditions, ensuring rapid
assistance for accidents and emergencies - thereby contributing to improved road safety.
Furthermore, intelligent traffic management systems utilizing computer vision technologies will
enable pre-emptive identification and mitigation of potential risks on the roads. Ultimately, this
research aims to transform transportation in The Gambia by harnessing advanced technologies
for a safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation system that benefits all stakeholders.
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5. Evaluate and Adapt AI Solutions to Local Contexts:
Assessing the effectiveness and versatility of AI solutions like AlexNet V3, CNN, and YOLOv5
in The Gambia requires an examination of local traffic patterns, existing infrastructure, and
emergency service capabilities. This evaluation will uncover how these AI algorithms can be
utilized to analyze and tackle traffic issues in The Gambia, ultimately enhancing road safety,
traffic flow, and emergency response. Integration of these AI solutions into The Gambia's
transportation system is anticipated to significantly diminish road accidents and fatalities.
Additionally, AI-powered traffic management systems can streamline traffic flow, reduce
congestion, and improve overall transportation efficiency in The Gambia while also delivering
economic benefits such as cost savings through decreased delays and enhanced fuel efficiency.
This paper seeks to drive the digital transformation of transportation in The Gambia by equipping
the country with advanced AI technologies that foster a safer, more efficient transport system.
By thoroughly evaluating the combined YOLOv5 and AlexNet V3 systems, we can refine their
parameters and algorithms to ensure effectiveness, precision, and expandability in the vehicle
detection solution. This is essential for enabling real-time traffic monitoring and management in
The Gambia, ultimately leading to enhanced road safety, reduced congestion, and improved
transportation efficiency. The adoption of advanced AI technologies like YOLOv5 and AlexNet
V3 holds the potential to modernize The Gambia's transportation system by improving road
safety, traffic flow, and emergency response capabilities for all stakeholders.
Implementing intelligent traffic management solutions in The Gambia involves utilizing insights
driven by AI to devise strategies for improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and enhancing
overall transportation efficiency. This effort holds the potential to significantly boost the
effectiveness of the transport system in The Gambia by incorporating advanced AI technologies
into traffic management. The country can anticipate a decline in road accidents and casualties, as
well as economic benefits from cost savings due to reduced delays and improved fuel efficiency.
Implementing adaptive traffic management solutions based on AI insights offers prospects for
spearheading the digital transformation of transportation in The Gambia by establishing a safer,
more efficient, and sustainable transportation network that serves all stakeholders' interests.
Overall, leveraging AI technologies and adaptive traffic management solutions has promising
potential to modernize The Gambia's transportation system through improved road safety and
optimized transport efficiency amid today's rapidly evolving environment. However, it is
important to note that the success of implementing AI-driven traffic management solutions in The
Gambia will depend on factors such as investment in infrastructure, regulatory framework, and
public awareness and acceptance of these technologies.
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8. Integration of Neural Network Models for Synergistic Impact:
Investigate the synergistic impact of integrating and exploring neural network models to elevate
the effectiveness of vehicle detection in diverse and challenging traffic scenarios.
PARAPHRASED
By incorporating and examining neural network models, the research intends to evaluate the
potential enhancements in vehicle detection within varied and complex traffic conditions by
utilizing AI technologies such as YOLOv5 and AlexNet V3. The objective is to optimize the
parameters and algorithms of these combined systems to guarantee their accuracy, efficiency, and
flexibility for immediate traffic supervision and control in The Gambia. Ultimately, the study
aims to advance digital innovation in transportation by establishing safer, more streamlined, and
environmentally conscious practices through advanced AI-powered solutions for traffic
management.
Incorporating the AlexNet V3 model into the vehicle detection system represents a crucial
advancement in feature extraction, classification accuracy improvement, and enhancement of
intricate vehicle pattern identification within diverse and challenging traffic scenarios. By
integrating AlexNet V3, the research seeks to leverage its deep learning capabilities to improve
recognition and understanding of complex vehicle features, resulting in more precise and efficient
detection. This integration is expected to enhance the overall effectiveness and reliability of the
vehicle detection system, ultimately contributing to modernizing and increasing transportation
efficiency in The Gambia. Additionally, implementing AlexNet V3 will fortify the adaptability
and scalability of the vehicle detection solution, setting a foundation for real-time monitoring and
traffic flow management.
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Develop and implement YOLOv5-based predictive models to optimize emergency response
routes based on real-time traffic conditions, aiming to minimize response times and enhance the
effectiveness of emergency services.
4. Evaluate CNN and YOLOv5 Performance in Gambian Context:
By assessing the application of CNN and YOLOv5-based AI technologies in the context of traffic
and infrastructure management in The Gambia, valuable insights can be obtained regarding their
effectiveness, efficiency, and suitability for enhancing traffic and infrastructure control. The
findings from this assessment could guide future decision-making and resource allocation in The
Gambia, potentially leading to the formulation of more efficient strategies for managing traffic
and infrastructure. Implementing CNN and YOLOv5-based AI solutions within the framework of
traffic and infrastructure in The Gambia offers an opportunity to gain valuable insights into how
these AI solutions can enhance the management of traffic flow as well as infrastructural systems.
We plan to create a sophisticated system that constantly monitors and assesses the movements of
vehicles in real-time, providing a thorough examination of traffic trends. Through the application
of artificial intelligence algorithms and machine learning methods, the system will detect areas
with heavy traffic, forecast traffic patterns, and recommend the most efficient routes for drivers.
The integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and
YOLOv5, into the context of traffic management and road safety in The Gambia, is a novel,
groundbreaking, unparalleled, and unique approach. This research is motivated by the potential
transformative impact of these technologies on addressing specific challenges encountered by
Gambian roads.
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The focus on The Gambia ensures that the research is highly context-specific, considering the
unique dynamics, infrastructure, and traffic patterns of the country. By tailoring AI solutions to
the local context, the research addresses challenges that are directly relevant to The Gambia,
contributing to more effective and targeted interventions.
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2. Enhanced Traffic Management Efficiency:
By developing and implementing AI-driven traffic management solutions, including real-time
traffic flow optimization, the study seeks to improve the efficiency of traffic management in The
Gambia. This can result in reduced congestion, smoother traffic flow, and an overall
improvement in the transportation infrastructure.
3. Swift Emergency Response:
The integration of YOLOv5-based predictive models aims to optimize emergency response
routes based on real-time traffic conditions. This can lead to faster response times during
accidents or emergencies, potentially saving lives and minimizing the impact of critical
situations.
4. Tailored Solutions for Local Context:
The significance of the study lies in its focus on developing and adapting AI solutions to the
unique context of The Gambia. This ensures that the proposed interventions are specifically
tailored to address the challenges and characteristics of Gambian roads, making the research
directly relevant to the local population.
5. Adoption of State-of-the-Art Technologies:
The study's incorporation of advanced technologies such as YOLOv5 and CNN positions it at the
forefront of technological innovation in the field of transportation. The adoption of state-of-the-
art models for real-time applications showcases the potential for leveraging the latest
advancements in AI for practical and impactful solutions.
6. Scalability and Replicability:
The study's focus on creating a model for traffic management and road safety that integrates AI
technologies has broader implications. If successful, the model has the potential to be scaled and
replicated in other developing nations facing similar challenges, contributing to a global
improvement in road safety practices.
7. Academic Contribution:
The study contributes to the academic community by advancing the understanding of the
practical application of AI in traffic management and road safety. The research outcomes,
methodologies, and insights can serve as a valuable resource for future studies in the intersection
of AI and transportation.
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The scope of the project is to develop a smart traffic management system that utilizes YOLOv5
and AlexNetV3 Convolutional Neural Network Architecture for the detection of emergency
vehicles and the computation of average vehicle area. The system aims to optimize traffic flow
and improve emergency response times by accurately detecting emergency vehicles and
dynamically adjusting traffic signals to ensure priority access for the emergency vehicle.
1.6.2 Limitations
The limitations of the project include:
1. Hardware Limitations: The proposed system requires a high-resolution camera and a powerful
processor to perform real-time vehicle detection and traffic monitoring. The system's
performance may be limited by the hardware's processing power and memory capacity.
2. Limited Dataset: The accuracy of the system's vehicle detection and emergency vehicle
identification may be limited by the size and quality of the dataset used for training the models. A
larger and more diverse dataset may improve the system's accuracy.
3. Environmental Factors: The system's performance may be affected by environmental factors
such as lighting conditions, weather, and road conditions. These factors may affect the accuracy
of the vehicle detection and emergency vehicle identification.
4. Cost: The proposed system may require significant investment in hardware and software
development, which may limit its adoption in low-income areas or regions with limited resources.
5. Limited Generalization: The proposed system is designed for emergency vehicle detection and
traffic management in urban areas. Its effectiveness in other settings or regions may be limited.
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