While traffic lights are a common sight in most parts of the world, there are a handful of countries and regions that manage traffic without relying on them.
Instead, these places use alternative methods such as police direction, roundabouts, or ingrained cultural driving habits to keep vehicles moving smoothly.
Here’s a closer look at four unique locations where traffic lights are completely absent.
Bhutan
Bhutan holds the distinction of being the only country worldwide to operate entirely without traffic lights.
Even in Thimphu, the bustling capital, where traffic has increased due to urban growth, automated signals have never been adopted. Instead, police officers manage traffic flow manually at busy intersections using hand signals.
In 1995, a brief experiment with traffic lights was scrapped after locals expressed discomfort, feeling that signals clashed with the country’s traditions and cooperative spirit. Bhutan’s system is a testament to its small population size and strong community responsibility.
Vatican City
The world’s smallest sovereign state, Vatican City, also does not use traffic lights.
Covering just 44 hectares and home to about 800 residents, the city-state has limited roads where traffic is regulated through signage and the Vatican’s own police force.
This stands in stark contrast to the heavily trafficked streets just outside its borders in Rome, where traffic lights are ubiquitous.
Niue
Located in the South Pacific, Niue is another place without traffic lights.
With fewer than 2,000 inhabitants and minimal traffic, there is simply no need for automated traffic control. Roads are quiet and the driving culture is relaxed, with drivers often exchanging friendly waves.
The absence of traffic lights in Niue reflects the island’s close-knit community and low congestion.
Tekesi County, China
In Xinjiang’s Tekesi County, urban planning intentionally avoided traffic lights to preserve cultural symbolism.
The town’s layout is inspired by the Bagua, or Eight Trigrams, an ancient Taoist symbol, featuring circular streets and radiating roads that utilize roundabouts to guide vehicles.
In 1996, plans to install traffic lights were halted to maintain this unique design. Today, Tekesi’s traffic system is not only practical but also a source of local pride and cultural identity, symbolizing harmony and balance.
