Background of the study
Urban environments face significant challenges in ensuring pedestrian safety due to increasing vehicular traffic and infrastructural limitations. In Gombe LGA, pedestrian fatalities and injuries have risen steadily over recent years, prompting the need for innovative safety solutions. IoT‐based smart pedestrian safety systems utilize interconnected sensors, cameras, and wearable devices to monitor pedestrian movements, detect potential hazards, and provide real‐time alerts to both pedestrians and traffic management authorities (Olawale, 2023). These systems integrate data from roadside sensors and surveillance cameras with advanced algorithms to analyze pedestrian behavior and traffic patterns continuously. The real-time nature of data collection enables dynamic adjustments to traffic signals and immediate alerts via mobile applications, thus enhancing situational awareness among pedestrians and drivers alike (Ibrahim, 2024). Moreover, smart safety systems can detect anomalies such as jaywalking or distracted walking and subsequently trigger emergency responses or warnings. This proactive approach not only reduces accident risks but also instills a safety culture within urban communities.
The implementation of IoT-based pedestrian safety systems in Gombe LGA is particularly timely given the rapid urbanization and motorization witnessed in the region. The technology’s potential to integrate with existing traffic management infrastructure allows for a more cohesive safety network, where data-driven insights can inform urban planning and policy reforms. In addition, the scalability of IoT solutions means that once a robust model is established, similar systems can be extended to other regions facing analogous challenges (Adeola, 2023). However, the effectiveness of these systems depends on the reliability of sensor data, the robustness of wireless networks, and the ability to protect data privacy. Environmental factors such as dust and extreme weather conditions common in Gombe may affect sensor accuracy and system performance. Despite these challenges, IoT-based systems present a promising avenue to significantly enhance pedestrian safety through real-time monitoring, rapid response, and continuous system improvement based on historical data analytics (Chinaza, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Gombe LGA has experienced a rising number of pedestrian accidents due to outdated safety measures and inefficient traffic control mechanisms. Traditional pedestrian safety practices, which rely on manual monitoring and static signage, fail to provide timely alerts or adjust to real-time traffic conditions. This results in a significant gap between the detection of hazardous situations and the execution of emergency responses. Moreover, the absence of a centralized, data-driven system hampers the ability of local authorities to assess risk areas accurately and to deploy preventive measures. IoT-based smart pedestrian safety systems, despite their potential, are underutilized in the region due to challenges such as high installation costs, technical maintenance issues, and limited local expertise in managing advanced digital infrastructures (Ibrahim, 2024). Furthermore, environmental challenges, including sensor degradation due to dust and high temperatures, exacerbate the problem, leading to unreliable data collection and delayed alerts. The fragmented nature of existing safety protocols has led to inconsistent responses to pedestrian hazards, thereby compromising overall road safety. There is an urgent need to evaluate the operational performance of IoT-based systems in this context, understand the technical and infrastructural challenges, and propose strategies that ensure sustainability and effective integration with local traffic management frameworks. This study seeks to bridge the gap by analyzing the current pedestrian safety challenges, exploring the efficacy of IoT solutions, and recommending a framework for enhanced real-time monitoring and rapid response to pedestrian hazards (Olawale, 2023).
Objectives of the study
To evaluate the effectiveness of IoT-based systems in enhancing pedestrian safety.
To identify technical and environmental challenges affecting system performance.
To propose strategies for optimizing system integration with existing traffic management frameworks.
Research questions
How do IoT-based pedestrian safety systems reduce accident risks in real time?
What technical challenges affect sensor performance in Gombe LGA?
How can system integration be improved to enhance overall pedestrian safety?
Significance of the study
This study is critical in addressing the growing pedestrian safety concerns in Gombe LGA by examining the potential of IoT-based systems to reduce accidents through real-time monitoring and rapid response. The findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners, guiding future investments in smart safety infrastructure and promoting data-driven traffic management strategies (Olawale, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study focuses on IoT-based smart pedestrian safety systems within Gombe LGA. Limitations include high installation costs, environmental factors affecting sensor reliability, and potential data privacy issues.
Definitions of terms
IoT (Internet of Things): A network of interconnected devices that collect and exchange data in real time.
Smart Pedestrian Safety System: A technological system designed to monitor and enhance the safety of pedestrians through real-time data analytics.
Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous tracking and analysis of data as events occur.
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