Iraq's General Traffic Directorate is implementing an AI-based traffic management system designed to automatically regulate intersections and roundabouts, Director Lieutenant General Oday Samir said Friday.

The system uses sensors to measure traffic volumes and adjust signal timings, while linking consecutive intersections to improve traffic flow. In Baghdad, a project calls for 139 intersections to be equipped with smart cameras and radars, with four of each planned for every intersection.

Samir said the first phase has been completed at 50 intersections, with 20 radars installed so far. The Directorate has also contracted to deploy 360-degree smart cameras and radars on highways to detect traffic violations, improve traffic management, and reduce accidents.

He said expanding smart traffic systems will reduce the number of officers needed to control intersections while allowing them to focus on supervision and other duties. He also stressed the need for greater coordination among traffic authorities, municipalities, and road and bridge agencies on infrastructure projects.

Samir said smart cameras have already helped reduce violations including speeding, driving against traffic, and running red lights. He identified mobile phone use while driving as a leading cause of traffic accidents and stressed that road safety requires compliance with traffic laws.