IoT: a solution against insecurity in public transportation?

A few years ago, when the Internet of Things (IoT) began to disrupt, Hans Vestberg, CEO of Ericsson, predicted that its impact would be so profound that he stated, "If a person connects to the network, it changes their life. But if everything and every object connects to the Internet, it's the world that changes." Today, we are experiencing this transformation.

Currently, with advances in hardware, LPWAN networks, and connection protocols solidifying IoT in both industry and everyday life, we have wondered if the Internet of Things can help address one of the biggest problems in Latin America: insecurity in public transportation.

Table of Contents

1. The Case of Mexico City
2. Security and Mobility: a Key Aspect for Smart Cities
3. Is IoT Part of the Solution?
4. Are There Business Opportunities, or Is It Just a Trend?

The Case of Mexico City

Some time ago, Mexico City decided to implement a strategy to reduce insecurity in public transportation by installing more than 15,000 cameras with MDVR equipment on the vehicles. In its first stage, the results were positive: in the first few months, high-impact crimes decreased by 30%, and the number of arrests increased significantly.

RedGPS participated in this program with the goal of helping solve this problem, also thinking about how we can complement this strategy and make it more effective and comprehensive with the array of IoT solutions currently available.

In addition to the geolocation device and cameras installed on buses, taxis, and minibuses as part of this plan, the project included the creation of a webservice that allowed real-time data and video communication and transmission to the relevant security instance (known as C5) when a crime occurred.

RedGPS' solution perfectly met the requirements of the city government because we not only developed the web service and provided the platform but also offered a smart transportation management model for both concessionaires and authorities to advance the modernization of the system.

Security and Mobility: a Key Aspect for Smart Cities

Smart cities are connected and optimized cities through the application of information technologies, with the goal of improving the quality of life for their residents across 6 urban domains: economy, mobility, security, education, lifestyle, and the environment.

Tools to measure and assess driver behavior, program and monitor real-time routes, maintain a complete record of all fleet-related documents, or sensors and driver assistance systems are resources that, in addition to strengthening security strategies, also enhance the daily lives of citizens and lay the foundation for the transformation of cities into smart cities.

All of this must be connected to a single mobility platform capable of connecting to various hardware and transmitting alerts and data to law enforcement agencies. For this reason, video surveillance strategies in transportation being implemented in many Latin American cities are a fundamental step in their modernization process.

Is IoT Part of the Solution?

Yes. The evolution of LPWAN networks and infrastructure, communication protocols, and the capabilities of new hardware position IoT, along with all GPS-related technology, at the heart of solutions. 

Speaking of security, the ability to receive and process data from every GPS device installed in passenger transport units or buses — information that was previously unimaginable — makes it possible to plan routes with artificial intelligence and machine learning. Furthermore, its compatibility with IoT sensors and accessories places these technologies at the center of all mobility-related strategies.

This is even more evident because IoT devices are already highly accessible and seamlessly complement other forms of connectivity like WIFI, Bluetooth, GSM, or through networks like SIGFOX to transmit sensor information and location even when a jammer device is active. This means that the use of IoT hardware is already a reality and represents a cost-effective proposition that significantly improves current solutions.

To mention just one example, with our mobility platform, you can control the quality of public transportation, know how many passengers each unit has, record every detail during a route, have a precise measurement of fuel consumption, record and transmit video in emergency situations, and even determine if drivers are fatigued or driving dangerously, and more. All this information is received on a single platform and processed for decision-making or prepared for consumption by any system.

Are there business opportunities, or is it just a trend?

Yes, there are business opportunities. At RedGPS, we help you address any customized requirements or specifications as situations demand. Our advice is to pay attention to these projects and stay informed about the tenders for the installation of cameras and tracking equipment in transportation so you can put together a strong proposal and win the project. Many cities in Latin America and Spain are in this process, and it's a trend that won't change. On the contrary, it's already a requirement in new legislation and urban improvement projects.

Those working in the security and tracking industry cannot overlook all the opportunities that GPS/IoT technology represents. If you're our customer, speak with your Account Manager and seek guidance on the integration and implementation of these technologies to create projects that enhance current solutions, allowing you to offer an effective and competitive proposal. If you're not yet a customer, sign up here to get a free Demo.

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