The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

The Ministry of Works yesterday said it is employing artificial intelligence (AI) to predict where pot holes will form on The Bahamas' road networks as the country moves into rainy season.

Damian Francis, its deputy director, speaking at a press conference yesterday revealed that AI is being employed in the ministry's road rehabilitation programme to not only organise traffic flows but to better predict the likelihood of pot holes forming on multiple roadways.

There are 12 zones, each with their own assigned contractor, that the Ministry of Works is focusing on in New Providence with regard to filling potholes. “The issue that we have in New Providence is the existing roadways are in a very poor condition in a number of areas, and that is resulting in potholes developing in a very short period of time, specifically when it's the rainy season." Mr Francis said. "We also have a paving programme which will address a lot of these areas.

“We're also looking at other AI-based software, and another one is monitoring our road maintenance management system for New Providence and the Family Islands, which is collecting data, assessing the data. Basically we install a camera on our vehicles, we videotape the existing roadway. The data that's picked up cracks in the roadway tells you how soon we're going to start exhibiting pot holes,and then also picks up road markings, signage and a lot of data that we can utilise to maintain the road network.

The benefit of the AI-based programme is reduced detection and repair time. "It may take someone on a mile of road about two to three days to do a proper assessment. In 30 minutes, we can drive that roadway, pick up the data, have the data recorded and go back to have a look at it, assess it and determine what we need to do next,” Mr Francis said.

Alfred Sears KC, minister of works and utilities, said the Ministry of Works has undertaken a “comprehensive programme” to deal with road rehabilitation ahead of the International Road Federation (IRF) conference that starts today at Atlantis, Paradise Island.

"This conference will bring together some of the most distinguished transportation experts, decision makers and professionals from around the world to delve into critical issues and explore innovative solutions in the field of road infrastructure," he said.

"Their collective expertise, diverse perspectives and vast experience will provide invaluable insights and drive collaborative efforts towards developing a safe, inclusive and resilient transport system in the Caribbean. As an organisation with strong presence in the Caribbean since 2012, the International Road Federation has continuously demonstrated its commitment to addressing the region's diverse needs and challenges.”