fight holiday traffic jam
UK government wants to fight holiday traffic jams with AI
The UK's Department of Transport has announced plans to share data on roadworks taking place during public holidays. The government agency hopes that the datasets will be used by navigation companies like Garmin, Here and Waze โ many of which rely on AI technologies โ to optimize the flow of traffic. "Today's announcement will help open up data, reducing congestion, pollution and frustration for road users," said George Freeman, Minister for the Future of Transport. The government collects information on upcoming roadworks through Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) โ tools which allow local authorities to restrict, regulate or prevent the use of any public road. Under proposed legislative changes, tech companies would be able to gain access to this treasure trove of data and come up with solutions to potential traffic jams, months in advance.