TVAC Crisis in Bengaluru

Bengaluru’s New Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC) Traffic System: Innovation or Chaos?

Bengaluru, a city long plagued by traffic congestion, has recently implemented the Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC) system to optimize traffic flow using real-time vehicle movement data. While this technology-driven approach aims to improve efficiency, early feedback from drivers suggests significant drawbacks that could impact road safety and user experience. From unpredictable signal changes to the absence of countdown timers, Bengaluru’s motorists are finding the transition to this new system challenging and, in some cases, hazardous.

An Unfamiliar System Leading to Confusion

One of the biggest hurdles in the adoption of the VAC system is the lack of awareness among drivers. Many motorists are unfamiliar with how the system operates, leading to confusion and misinterpretation of signals. Unlike traditional fixed-timer signals, which allow drivers to anticipate light changes, the VAC system adjusts in real time based on traffic density. This unpredictability has caught many drivers off guard, especially during rush hours when traffic behavior is already chaotic.

The Missing Countdown Timer: A Major Setback

Previously, Bengaluru’s traffic signals had countdown timers that helped drivers prepare for red or green lights. This feature allowed motorists to make informed decisions, such as switching off their engines at long red lights to conserve fuel. However, the new VAC system does not include a countdown timer, making it impossible for drivers to anticipate stoppages. This not only causes frustration but also leads to increased fuel consumption and pollution, as vehicles remain idling unnecessarily.

Erratic Signal Changes: A Safety Concern

One of the most concerning issues reported by drivers is the erratic nature of signal changes under the VAC system. Since the signals adjust dynamically based on traffic flow, there have been instances where the lights suddenly switch from green to red, particularly when vehicles are in the middle of an intersection or making a turn. This abrupt change can leave drivers stranded in intersections, leading to confusion, honking, and even potential collisions with other vehicles that assume the signal timing remains predictable.

A Negative Impact on the Driving Experience

Many Bengaluru drivers have expressed frustration and unease with the new system. The unpredictability of signals makes driving more stressful, as motorists must constantly be on edge, unsure of whether they will have enough time to cross an intersection. In congested areas, this has resulted in traffic snarls and near misses, further complicating an already challenging urban driving experience. For many, the VAC system feels like an added burden rather than an improvement.

The Need for Better Communication and Improvements

While the VAC system has potential, its current implementation lacks sufficient public awareness and adaptation measures. To address the growing concerns, authorities should:

1. Educate drivers about how VAC works through awareness campaigns, social media updates, and on-road signage.
2. Reintroduce countdown timers to give drivers a better sense of timing and prevent abrupt braking or risky accelerations.
3. Fine-tune signal algorithms to ensure smoother transitions, reducing the likelihood of sudden signal shifts that leave drivers stranded.

Conclusion

The Vehicle Actuated Control (VAC) system in Bengaluru represents a bold step toward smarter traffic management, but its execution has raised critical safety and usability concerns. Without proper education, predictable transitions, and features like countdown timers, drivers will continue to face confusion and frustration. If the authorities take swift corrective actions, the VAC system could evolve into a more driver-friendly and effective solution for Bengaluru’s infamous traffic woes. Until then, motorists must navigate the challenges of an unpredictable and evolving traffic signal system.