JSE-listed MTN and the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) have partnered to ensure traffic lights near the telecommunications group’s base stations are operational during loadshedding.

MTN is now engaging other metropolitans to offer the solution, which includes leveraging its backup power systems at its base stations to supply power to the traffic lights during loadshedding, for other parts of Gauteng and the rest of the country.

The JRA and MTN service level agreement will initially see MTN South Africa providing backup power to all traffic lights located near its base stations in Soweto, which will significantly alleviate delays and frustrations experienced by Soweto residents and commuters during loadshedding.

“By providing reliable AC power backup to traffic lights at intersections near its network stations, MTN is taking a proactive step towards enhancing traffic management in the region,” said MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi, noting that the company is taking proactive steps to alleviate the impact loadshedding has on commuters.

This will be particularly helpful at key “traffic corridors” that lead towards highways.

“To ensure efficient traffic flow at peak times, we need smooth-flowing traffic corridors that lead traffic onto highways, keeping people moving to their destinations with ease and efficiency,” he continued.

“By ensuring a stable power supply to traffic lights, we aim to enhance road safety, minimise congestion and create a more seamless driving and transportation experience for all road users,” added JRA acting CEO Zweli Nyati.

Molapisi added that the company aims to expand further afield and partner with municipalities across the country to create corridors of free-flowing traffic during loadshedding by using existing base stations to power traffic lights where it can.

MTN is also currently creating a “traffic corridor” from the Flora Clinic, along 14th avenue, in Roodepoort, towards the N1 highway, leading to outside the MTN head office.

“Those traffic lights will be backed up by power supplied by electricity generated from the MTN campus,” he said, adding that MTN welcomes municipalities from all provinces to collaborate on potential traffic light powering opportunities.

“Strong public and private partnerships can make such a positive impact on the lives of South Africans and this is one such example, where a simple collaboration using existing infrastructure will help decongest traffic, while also saving commuters time, frustration and money," Molapisi concluded.