Digital Transformation of Road Infrastructure in the City of Banja Luka

The concept of a smart city is not just a phrase but is already happening in the heart of Banja Luka through the implementation of the Smart Intersection Project, led by TeleGroup Banja Luka. This initiative aims to enhance traffic efficiency, improve road safety, and create a modern and smart city.

One of the key challenges for contemporary cities is managing the growing number of vehicles on the roads. To address this challenge, the city of Banja Luka has opted for advanced technology by implementing smart intersections. TeleGroup Banja Luka, a regional leader in innovation and technological solutions, has taken the lead in realizing this ambitious project.

By using smart traffic lights, Banja Luka has joined other European cities in leveraging the latest traffic engineering technologies, enabling the rational and efficient use of time at intersections. With innovative technologies in traffic signalization, the system optimally utilizes existing infrastructure by applying detectors and complex traffic algorithms to adapt the operation of traffic signals in real-time based on conditions at individual intersections.

"Improvements observed after implementation include reduced waiting times at traffic lights for all road users (drivers, pedestrians, cyclists) and increased vehicle throughput during peak hours. Additionally, waiting times at traffic lights have decreased during nighttime when traffic is light, enhancing the satisfaction and safety of all road users by eliminating unnecessary stops during low-traffic periods," said Miloš Stupar, Project Manager at TeleGroup.

Artificial Intelligence and IoT Devices in Smart Intersections

The use of video detection, video analytics, and complex algorithms for selecting appropriate signal programs at each intersection allows each one to function as a unique ecosystem. These intersections manage current demands while considering incoming traffic from nearby intersections. Data analytics from video detectors enables the system to make decisions on signal activation in real-time based on complex algorithms and artificial intelligence. These decisions are implemented through a central system, ensuring that traffic signal programs account for the entire network of roads equipped with smart intersection technology.

Stupar highlighted the numerous benefits for the local community. Primarily, by managing traffic signals in real-time, the operation of traffic lights is adjusted to actual conditions, increasing vehicle flow through the city. This reduces noise and pollution caused by "stop-and-go" traffic—fewer stops translate to lower emissions in the city. Additionally, optimizing traffic with adaptive management systems directly reduces fuel consumption and enables faster movement through the city, saving money for the city and its residents while improving urban functionality.

Safety and User Satisfaction Are Imperatives for TeleGroup

Statistics show that with the implementation of the adaptive traffic management system, traffic flow and travel speed through the road network have increased by over 15% compared to previous conditions. Shorter travel times have increased driver and user satisfaction, directly reducing frustration and traffic violations caused by user dissatisfaction. With the use of the latest LED technology in traffic lights, visibility has improved, indirectly enhancing the safety of the most vulnerable road users—pedestrians.

The Smart Intersection Project in Banja Luka demonstrates how technology can transform urban infrastructure and improve residents' daily lives. This initiative places Banja Luka on the map of modern cities ready to embrace digital transformation for a better future.