Authority Plans to Digitize Transport, Traffic Mang't Systems

The Federal Transport Authority will institute a digital system that integrates traffic and transport management systems. By the time it is operational, it will have cost the Authority an estimated 45 million dollars.

The Transport & Traffic Management System will integrate driver training, testing and licensing, vehicle registration and inspection, penalty management and road accident management.

The Authority is in the process of hiring a consultant to design the System and to supervise the installation of all related infrastructure. A tender to hire a consultant was floated on August 25, but was canceled as a result of a lack of interest by qualified firms. After the tender was floated for the third time, which closed two weeks ago, eight local and international companies submitted their technical and financial offers.

The Authority plans to have the system design completed by the end of this fiscal year.

“The current traffic system requires an integrated information system where information about vehicles and penalties is available and accessible,” said Banchialem Luel, IT head at the Authority. “We also hope to improve our service efficiency and reduce economic costs related to transportation.”

Almost a third of driving licenses in Ethiopia are fraudulently obtained, according to a study done by the Authority.

“The number of unqualified drivers on the road is alarming,” said Banchialem. “The new system will provide the traffic police with the necessary infrastructure to easily identify fake drivers' licenses.”

This Management System is part of a bigger project, Transport Systems Improvement Project (TRANSIP) to be implemented by the Authority and Addis Abeba City Roads Authority.