Africazine:
Lagos is embracing technology to transform traffic management and enhance road safety.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) is deploying drones and advanced technology to improve traffic monitoring. This initiative aims to reduce accidents and optimize travel times across the state.
LASTMA Introduces Drone Technology for Traffic Monitoring
LASTMA has begun using drones to capture real-time data on vehicle breakdowns and accidents. The drones can travel between 10 to 12 kilometers, allowing the agency to monitor traffic conditions effectively. The deployment covers key areas, including Third Mainland and Adeniji Adele.
According to LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, this technology has been in use for over seven months, significantly enhancing the agency’s operational capabilities. The drones provide immediate insights into traffic infractions, enabling quicker responses to incidents.
Lagos: Key figures on Traffic Management
- 10 to 12 kilometers – drone travel range
- 17,000 plus – estimated physical enforcement figures for 2026
- 120,000 – technological enforcement figures for 2025
- 54,000 plus – technological enforcement figures for 2024
Enhancing Public Engagement and Service Delivery
In addition to drone technology, LASTMA has introduced a toll-free line to facilitate public feedback. This line, operational since 2024, allows citizens to report issues in English, Yoruba, or Pidgin, ensuring that complaints are addressed promptly.
Olalekan emphasized the importance of technology in reducing human interference in traffic management. The agency has shifted focus from physical enforcement to technology-driven solutions, which have also led to a decrease in court cases related to traffic violations.
Future Steps for LASTMA’s Technological Integration
- Continue expanding drone deployment across Lagos
- Enhance public feedback mechanisms through the toll-free line
- Increase technological enforcement capabilities in 2026
LASTMA’s innovative use of technology is reshaping traffic management in Lagos.
