04-02-2012, 01:41 PM
1. INTRODUCTION
Transportation is a driving force behind development and the well being of all people around the world. Modern life demands growing mobility, frequently it is secured through ever-increasing use of private cars. The resulting burdens on the transport infrastructure, that is already heavily stretched, are multiplying. Despite major expenditures on new road infrastructures, traffic congestion continues to rise. Past gains in road safety and environmental improvements are decreasing. It is unlikely that these problems can be solved simply by building more roads or by relying on past approaches. Innovative efforts are clearly needed on broad front. Among this is the concept, and the practice, of intelligent transport systems (ITS) which can open up new ways of achieving sustainable mobility in our communications and information society. ITS are transport systems that apply information, communications, and the control technologies to improve the operation of transport networks.
ITS is an international program aimed at using advanced technology for improving the efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of land transportation. It incorporates a wide variety of advanced technology systems and products.
The concept of Intelligent Transportation Systems was first introduced as a concept of automating traffic flows. Intelligent Transportation Systemic the incorporation of information technologies and advances in electronics into all parts of the transportation network. Simply speaking, it is the application of technology to transportation systems. Thus Intelligent Transportation Systems involve the integration of technology in areas such as communications, information systems sensors, and operation research methods with conventional transportation infrastructure to address many transportation issues that confront the conventional system at this time.
Thus, Intelligent Transportation Systems improve safety, mobility, efficiency, productivity, and environmental quality for humanity. These goals are accomplished on the vehicle side through the application of electronics and communication technologies to advanced mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. Thus, in cars, Intelligent Transportation Systems help drivers navigate, avoid traffic holdups and avoid collisions. On trains and buses, they let managers optimize fleet operation and offer passengers automatic ticketing and real-time running information. On the road network, Intelligent Transportation Systems co-ordinate traffic signals, detect and manage incidents and display information, guidance and instructions to drivers. Thus, The Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is a new transportation system which is comprised of an advanced information and telecommunications network for users, roads and vehicles
ITS tools are based on three core features- information, communications and integrations-that help operators and travelers make better and coordinated decisions. Through improvement of operations, ITS tools are used to save time and lives, to enhance the quality of life and the environment, and to improve the productivity of commercial activities. An ITS includes both technical and institutional components: . This paper summarizes the general concepts, various components and need of an ITS for India.
