A new pilot project to introduce artificial intelligence-based safety systems in private buses has been launched to increase the safety of long-distance passenger transport in Sri Lanka.
The main objective of this project is to install Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and Driver Monitoring System (DMS) in long distance private buses. It has been reported that the initiative has been officially launched today on October 8 under the leadership of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Ratnayake.
As long-distance buses carry a large number of passengers daily, it is considered important to minimize the risks caused by factors such as driver inattention or unsafe driving habits. A significant aspect of the project is seen as using the help of technology to monitor the activities of drivers, especially those who drive continuously for long periods of time.
These systems, which use artificial intelligence, are expected to help monitor driver behavior and identify potential hazards early. Officials hope that this will encourage drivers to drive safely.
Technology that enhances passenger safety
The main objective of this new scheme is to increase the safety of public traveling in long distance buses. Long distance buses play an important role in daily public transport in Sri Lanka. People traveling for hours from one city to another use such bus services more.
During such long journeys it is very important that the driver’s attention remains on the road. Fatigue, distraction or unsafe driving behavior caused by prolonged driving can endanger passengers and other road users.
In this background, the driver monitoring system known as DMS becomes important. By monitoring the driver’s behavior, the technology is expected to help identify certain situations that could pose a threat to safety.
Meanwhile, the ADAS system is also intended to be used to identify potential hazards on the road. This enables the drivers to receive timely alerts.
The introduction of these technologies is not intended to reduce the responsibility of drivers. Rather, its primary objective is to promote safer driving by using technology to assist them.
No matter how advanced artificial intelligence systems are, ultimately the driver is in control of the vehicle, so the idea that human responsibility should be coupled with technology is critical.
A new initiative to reduce accidents
While various measures are being taken to reduce road accidents in Sri Lanka, the introduction of AI-based safety systems in long-distance buses is another step in those efforts.
As the driving behavior of drivers can be continuously monitored through this program, the possibility of developing safe driving habits can be increased. Technical monitoring can be an additional incentive for drivers in particular to obey the rules and drive.
A brief look at the key points reiterated in the original message reveals four points at the heart of this project. The first is the safety of passengers traveling in long-distance buses. Second, monitoring the behavior of drivers. Third, early detection of potential road hazards. Fourth, reduce road accidents and develop safe driving habits.
These features are interrelated. If risky behavior can be identified by monitoring driver activity, then safer driving behavior can be encouraged. An increase in safe driving practices will also lead to a reduction in the number of accidents.
However, the introduction of new technology alone cannot be seen as a solution to fully ensure road safety. Many factors like technical condition of buses, quality of roads, adherence to traffic rules, training of drivers and safety awareness of passengers also influence it.
Hence continuous driver training and strict enforcement of safety regulations may be necessary along with AI systems. How drivers use the warnings provided by the technology will also be a key factor in determining the success of the program.
Overall, this pilot project to introduce ADAS and DMS systems in long-distance private buses is a new initiative to leverage technology in public transport safety in Sri Lanka.
The next phase of the project will focus on the extent to which the objectives of increasing passenger safety, monitoring drivers’ driving behavior and reducing road accidents are met in practice. If the project is successful, it could also lead to the introduction of such safety technologies in more public transport services in the future.