Design and Implementation of A GPS-GSM Based Real-Time Vehicle Theft Tracking System For Urban Security in Uganda
Design and Implementation of A GPS-GSM Based Real-Time Vehicle Theft Tracking System For Urban Security in Uganda
Abstract: Vehicle theft remains a persistent security challenge in urban centers across developing regions, particularly in
Uganda, where rapid urbanization and limited law enforcement resources have led to a surge in motor vehicle-related crimes.
In response, this paper presents the design, development, and testing of a GPS-GSM-based real-time vehicle theft tracking and
mitigation system tailored for deployment in Ugandan cities. The proposed solution integrates Global Positioning System (GPS)
modules with Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) technology and microcontroller-based embedded systems to
create a location-aware, remotely accessible vehicle monitoring platform.
Unlike conventional vehicle tracking systems that rely heavily on internet connectivity and centralized cloud infrastructure,
this system utilizes SMS-based data transmission, ensuring reliability in environments with intermittent or non-existent data
services. Core system components include the Neo-6M GPS receiver, SIM800L GSM transceiver, and an Arduino Uno
microcontroller, all interfaced to support a robust detection and alert framework. Unauthorized vehicle access events trigger
immediate alerts via SMS to registered stakeholders, complete with real-time geospatial coordinates. An optional engine
immobilization mechanism, controlled via SMS command, further enhances the system’s deterrent capabilities.
Field implementation and testing were conducted in various urban scenarios across Kampala, Uganda, to evaluate signal
reliability, message latency, and GPS positional accuracy under real-world constraints such as high-rise interference, power
interruptions, and GSM congestion. The results indicated an average GPS accuracy of 4–6 meters and SMS delivery latency of
less than 4 seconds under optimal signal conditions. The system exhibited over 95% reliability in maintaining GPS lock and
GSM responsiveness throughout multiple test cycles. Furthermore, the modular architecture allows for straightforward
integration with additional IoT functionalities such as RFID-based authentication, LoRa-based range expansion, and cloud-
based forensic recordkeeping.
This research contributes to the growing body of work in ICT and IoT for public safety, offering a cost-effective, scalable,
and locally viable solution to vehicular theft in low-resource settings. Its emphasis on decentralized communication, real-time
alerts, and component accessibility positions it as a practical model for smart city security frameworks in developing nations.
Keywords: GPS Tracking, GSM Communication, IoT, Vehicle Theft Detection, SMS-Based Systems, Embedded Hardware, Urban
Security, Real-Time Monitoring, Uganda, Arduino, Microcontroller Systems.
How to Cite: Anyango Esther Gorret. (2025). Design and Implementation of a GPS-GSM Based Real-Time Vehicle Theft Tracking
System for Urban Security in Uganda. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology,
10(4), 3723-3729. https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25apr2333.
A. Experimental Setup
Real-time map view of vehicle location
The prototype was installed in two test vehicles — a 2006
Alert log with timestamps and location
Toyota Premio and a 2019 Bajaj Boxer motorcycle — to
Immobilization toggle (via SMS)
capture a wide range of vehicle dynamics and environments.
System status indicators (GPS lock, GSM signal, battery Test locations included:
level)
Central Business District (CBD): High-rise buildings,
H. System Workflow dense traffic, moderate to poor GPS signal conditions.
Ntinda–Kisaasi Road: Open terrain, light traffic, strong
When the vehicle starts, the Arduino system activates and
satellite visibility.
begins capturing GPS coordinates.
If unauthorized access is detected (e.g., ignition without
Makindye Suburb: Mixed-use residential-commercial
area, intermittent mobile network coverage.
key or no RFID tag), an SMS is triggered to the owner's
number.
The system was powered by a 2200mAh Li-ion battery
The backend server logs the event, and the frontend
with a voltage regulator to ensure consistent 5V output to all
updates the dashboard accordingly.
components. Data collection spanned five days, with multiple
The owner can send a command via the dashboard or vehicle start/stop cycles, movement tracking sessions, and
manually via SMS to trigger the relay and immobilize the simulated theft events using vibration triggers and unauthorized
vehicle. ignition attempts.
All activities are timestamped and logged in the database
for forensic or audit purposes.
B. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The table below summarizes the core performance metrics
gathered during testing:
This shows that the proposed system not only offers low-cost, locally available components such as the Arduino
comparable technical capabilities but also provides greater Uno, Neo-6M GPS module, and SIM800L GSM transceiver,
adaptability for Ugandan conditions and lower cost of entry. the system was able to reliably monitor vehicle movements,
detect unauthorized access events, and provide timely SMS-
E. Limitations and Mitigations based alerts to vehicle owners.
While Results were Largely Positive, a Few Challenges One of the key strengths of the system is its offline
were Noted: operational capability, which allows it to function effectively
in areas with limited or no internet access—a common
GPS Drift in Dense Areas: Multipath errors in the CBD challenge in several Ugandan urban zones. The modular
were mitigated using periodic GPS validation checks architecture ensures ease of installation and maintainability,
(averaging multiple coordinates before SMS dispatch). while the integration of optional vehicle immobilization logic
GSM Congestion: Alert delays were occasionally further strengthens its deterrent capabilities.
experienced during peak traffic hours. This was partially
mitigated by retry logic implemented in the GSM module’s Field testing across Kampala and surrounding areas
AT command loop. demonstrated high location accuracy, fast response times, and
Battery Performance: Extreme heat during daytime testing reliable GSM communication under variable real-world
reduced battery efficiency; a casing with thermal shielding conditions. These results confirm that such a system is not only
is recommended for deployment. technically viable but also highly impactful in improving urban
security infrastructure, particularly in developing regions
V. CONCLUSION where affordability, simplicity, and autonomy are crucial for
widespread adoption.
This study has successfully demonstrated the feasibility,
technical robustness, and socio-economic relevance of a GPS-
GSM-based real-time vehicle theft tracking system tailored
specifically for the urban security needs of Uganda. Leveraging
Mobile App Development [1]. Sharma, R., et al. Design of GSM Based Vehicle
A cross-platform mobile application (built with React Tracking System. International Journal of Computer
Native or Flutter) would improve user interaction, allow visual Science Issues, vol. 16, no. 1, 2019.
route mapping, and provide easier access to real-time alerts and [2]. Okello, J., et al. Evaluating GPS Signal Strength and
history logs. Accuracy in Uganda’s Urban Areas. East African
Journal of Engineering, 2020.
LoRa or NB-IoT Integration [3]. Arduino.cc. Arduino UNO Documentation, 2022.
For rural or cross-border applications, integrating LoRa Available at:
(Long Range Radio) or NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) would https://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/arduinoBoardUno