Heat Maps Dubai’s authorities are implementing a suite of cutting-edge technologies to tackle flooded streets and traffic woes during heavy rains. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has established a Joint Flood Management Room in collaboration with various entities, leading to significant improvements in response and recovery times.
Proactive Measures Following November Flooding
After severe flooding in November caused extensive delays, especially in low-lying areas, the RTA has been proactive in addressing the challenges associated with heavy rains.
Enhanced Weather Forecasting and Preparedness: Heat Maps
Working closely with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the RTA is improving weather forecast data collection to enhance preparedness and ensure timely communication of alerts to the public.
Comprehensive Response Plan with Technological Integration
A comprehensive response plan has been devised, leveraging multiple technologies to address water accumulation on major roads across Dubai.
- Heat Maps: Identifying Prone Areas and Resources
Utilizing heat maps to identify areas prone to water accumulation, pump sites, and resources belonging to participating entities.
- Surveillance Cameras: Real-time Monitoring of Main Roads
Live footage from 450 surveillance cameras covering 91% of identified rainwater pond areas aids in real-time monitoring of the city’s main roads.
- Information Management Platform: Real-time Data for Operational Teams
An information management platform providing crucial real-time data to supervisory and field teams about ongoing activities.
- Mobile Surveillance Cameras: Flexibility in Coverage
Deployment of mobile surveillance cameras to cover areas not monitored by fixed surveillance cameras.
Proactive Communication and Warning Systems
During adverse weather conditions, the RTA disseminates information and warnings through digital channels, including social media. Proactive messages based on NCM data emphasize the need for caution and safe driving, with immediate warnings displayed on major roads in Dubai through dynamic message signs.
Joint Flood Management Room at Enterprise Command and Control Centre (EC3)
Situated at the EC3, one of the most sophisticated control centers managing over 8,000 km of roads, the Joint Flood Management Room operates in collaboration with entities such as Dubai Police General Headquarters, Dubai Municipality, and others.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence for Effective Crisis Management
The EC3 integrates real-time data from 7,000 surveillance cameras and employs artificial intelligence for incident and crisis management. Additionally, mobile phone data is utilized for planning, managing mobility, and crowd control.
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