An intelligent transportation system (ITS) is an advanced application which aims to provide innovative

services relating to different modes of transport and traffic management and enable users to be better
informed and make safer, more coordinated, and 'smarter' use of transport networks.[1]

Some of these technologies include calling for emergency services when an accident occurs, using
cameras to enforce traffic laws or signs that mark speed limit changes depending on conditions.

The application of ITS is widely accepted and used in many countries today. The use is not just limited to
traffic congestion control and information, but also for road safety and efficient infrastructure usage.
Because of its endless possibilities, ITS has now become a multidisciplinary conjunctive field of work and
thus many organizations around the world have developed solutions for providing ITS applications to
meet the need.

One such example is cities and towns in Europe. In the cities, Intelligent Transport System gives regular
information to the daily commuters about public buses, timings, seat availability, the current location of
the bus, time taken to reach a particular destination, next location of the bus and the density of
passengers inside the bus. Bus operators in the city have the sensors in their buses. So, if the bus is
going to be early to the next bus stop the bus is temporarily and very slightly is slowed down at the red
light little longer than it should be to make sure the bus is on time and do not ahead of the schedule”.
The system has been designed so smartly that passengers and even drivers are unaware of the delay as
they are very little delays.

Importance of ITS in the Ghanaian Transport Industry;

1. Traffic congestion: ITS technologies such as traffic surveillance cameras and vehicle detection
sensors signs have been deployed in some areas to monitor traffic flow and provide real-time
information to drivers. This helps a lot when one wants an alternative route to a destination so
as to avoid traffic. Also, surveys are easily conducted through google maps so that information
can easily be collected. These real-time passenger information systems help the public in
knowing the peak hours, how congested vehicles are at a particular time. This helps in managing
traffic congestion, particularly in urban centers like Accra and Kumasi, by enabling authorities to
adjust and suggest alternative routes.

Ghana, like many developing countries, faces challenges related to traffic congestion in major cities
such as Accra and Kumasi. ITS can help manage traffic flow by providing real-time data on road
conditions, optimizing traffic signal timing, and suggesting alternative routes to drivers to alleviate
congestion.

2. Attractive public transport: ITS has improve the efficiency and reliability of public transportation
systems in Ghana. Advanced technologies like GPS tracking, this technology allows people to
know the location of the ride they order for, this also helps the driver to know the location of
the driver. ITS has been utilized to enhance the efficiency and reliability of public transportation
systems. Some buses are equipped with GPS tracking devices, allowing transit agencies to
monitor their location and schedule adherence. Additionally, automated fare collection systems
have been implemented to streamline the ticketing process and reduce fare evasion.
 Another thing it has provided the public is the provision of real-time passenger information systems.
This has helped public transit agencies better manage their fleets, optimize routes, and provide
passengers with accurate information about schedules and delays.

3. Reduce pollution: ITS can provide drivers with real-time information about traffic conditions,
including congestion, accidents, and road closures. This enables drivers to choose the most
efficient routes, avoiding areas with heavy traffic and congestion. By reducing travel time and
distance, vehicles consume less fuel and emit fewer pollutants into the atmosphere.
4. Stimulate sustainable economic growth: ITS solutions are increasingly being employed to
improve the efficiency of cargo and freight transportation in Ghana. Technologies such as
electronic cargo tracking systems and intelligent logistics platforms help optimize supply chain
operations, reduce transit times, and enhance the reliability of freight movements, thereby
supporting trade and economic growth.
5. Sustainable transport (green transport): With increasing urbanization and motorization, Ghana
faces environmental challenges such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. ITS
contributes to sustainability efforts by promoting modal shifts to more eco-friendly modes of
transport such as public transit, cycling, and walking. Additionally, technologies like intelligent
traffic signal control helps reduce fuel consumption and emissions by minimizing idling and
unnecessary acceleration.

While still emerging, ITS can contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting more efficient use
of transportation resources. For example, intelligent traffic signal control systems can help reduce fuel
consumption and emissions more by optimizing traffic flow and minimizing idling at intersections.

6. Real-time travel information services: ITS generates vast amounts of data on various aspects of
transportation, including traffic patterns, travel behavior, and infrastructure conditions. This
data can be leveraged by policymakers and transportation agencies to make informed decisions
about infrastructure investments, urban planning, and policy formulation, leading to more
effective and sustainable transportation systems.
7. Infrastructure charging
8. Sophisticated management: ITS generates valuable data on traffic patterns, travel behavior, and
infrastructure conditions, which can inform transportation planning and decision-making
processes. This data helps policymakers identify areas with high congestion or safety risks,
prioritize infrastructure investments, and develop more effective transportation policies and
strategies.
9. Protect life and property: ITS can aid in emergency response and incident management on
roadways. Real-time traffic monitoring systems enable authorities to quickly detect accidents or
breakdowns and dispatch emergency services to the scene. Additionally, dynamic message signs
can be used to alert drivers about incidents ahead and provide instructions for detours, helping
to minimize disruptions and improve response times.
Question 2

Promotion of Alternative Transportation Modes: ITS can support the integration of alternative
transportation modes such as cycling, walking, and ride-sharing into the transportation network. For
example, ITS can include features such as bike-sharing systems and real-time information on bike lanes
and pedestrian pathways, making it easier for people to choose these sustainable modes of
transportation for short trips instead of driving. By reducing the number of vehicle trips, ITS helps
decrease traffic congestion and emissions.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety: ITS includes features to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists at
intersections. Pedestrian detection systems and crosswalk signals equipped with countdown timers
improve pedestrian visibility and provide sufficient time for crossing. Bicycle detection sensors and
dedicated bike lanes with signalized crossings prioritize the movement of cyclists through intersections,
reducing conflicts with vehicular traffic and improving overall safety for vulnerable road users.

Eco-Driving Assistance: Some ITS applications provide drivers with feedback on their driving behavior,
such as speed, acceleration, and braking patterns, to encourage more fuel-efficient driving practices. By
promoting smoother acceleration, maintaining steady speeds, and minimizing sudden stops, eco-driving
techniques can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. ITS technologies such as onboard
vehicle telematics and smartphone apps can provide drivers with real-time feedback and personalized
recommendations for improving their driving efficiency.

REF

Mahmood, Adnan; Siddiqui, Sarah Ali; Sheng, Quan Z.; Zhang, Wei Emma; Suzuki, Hajime; Ni, Wei (June
2022). "Trust on wheels: Towards secure and resource efficient IoV networks". Computing. 104 (6):
1337–1358.

Twumasi-Ankrah, K., & Boateng, Y. (2020). Enhancing Freight Logistics Efficiency in Ghana through
Intelligent Transport Systems. International Journal of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, 6(2), 87-
102.