HKUST and Hong Kong Police Force Launched Smart Traffic Management System in Kwun Tong

Prof. Hong K. Lo (fourth right), Dean of Engineering and Director of the GREAT Smart Cities Institute, Prof. Gary Chan (second right), Professor of Computer Science and Engineering, and Dr. Ng Ka-Fai (second left), Senior Research Engineer of GREAT Smart Cities Institute, attended a launch ceremony for the Smart Traffic Management System. [Download Photo]

The GREAT Smart Cities Institute (GSCI) of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and the Hong Kong Police Force have joined forces to launch the Smart Traffic Management System (STMS), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing traffic challenges in the Kwun Tong business area. Developed by Prof. Hong K. LO, Dean of Engineering and GSCI Director, and his team, this AI-powered system leverages cutting-edge research and technology to enhance urban mobility and safety. The STMS collects real-time traffic data, including vehicle flow and illegal parking, around the clock. By utilizing advanced algorithms, it automatically analyses this information to provide effective solutions for traffic management and suggests optimal resource allocation during congestion or accidents. This system is the first of its kind in Hong Kong to use artificial intelligence for traffic data computation. Chief Inspector YU Shing-Lam emphasized that the STMS is designed to focus exclusively on traffic data, ensuring the privacy of residents by deleting collected data within 28 days.

Key features of the STMS:

Real-Time Data Collection: 11 CCTV cameras installed across major streets, including Shing Yip and Hoi Yuen Road, continuously monitor traffic conditions.
Data Analysis and Solutions: Comprising three subsystems—data collection, data analysis, and an information and notification system—the STMS provides users with clear insights into current traffic situations.
User-Friendly Interface: The interface displays real-time traffic conditions using color-coded indicators to represent traffic flow smoothness and other critical metrics.

The development of the STMS was made possible through a HK$6.8 million grant from the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau’s TechConnect program. Since April of last year, HKUST has collaborated with the Transport Department, the Highways Department, and the Kwun Tong District Council’s Transport Committee to realize this innovative project.

With the STMS set to officially go live in the second half of this year, personnel from the Hong Kong Police and the Transport Department will be able to monitor road conditions in real time from their command centers. This advancement is expected to streamline traffic management and improve public safety in the Kwun Tong area. Looking ahead, if the pilot project proves successful, there are plans to expand the system to other districts across Hong Kong, furthering the city’s commitment to becoming a smart city.

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