The Department of Traffic Lights of the General Directorate of Traffic Engineering at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) has announced that reports of malfunctioning traffic lights can now be submitted through the Waze navigation app. This is part of a pilot project between MOPT and Waze aimed at improving traffic management and road safety.
The new system allows road users to report irregularities in traffic light operations in real time, similar to how other incidents such as accidents or road closures are reported on the platform. According to MOPT, “The initiative seeks to take advantage of technology and citizen participation to improve response to failures, optimize operational resources, and prevent risks at high-traffic intersections.”
MOPT stated that these reports provide immediate and georeferenced information, which helps with decision-making and prioritizing interventions. The agency added, “It also strengthens a collaborative management model between the Administration and citizens.” For drivers, using Waze as a reporting channel offers an accessible way to contribute to road safety while receiving alerts about incidents along their route.
In addition to Waze, malfunctioning traffic lights can be reported by email at semaforos@transito.go.cr, via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/semaforoscostarica/, through three phone numbers or WhatsApp lines (8975 2270 / 6170 9279 / 6260 3271), or by calling emergency service 9-1-1. When making a report, authorities request that people provide the exact location of the damaged system and a brief description of the issue if possible.
On average, repairs for systems outside the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) may take up to 16 days. Within GAM, issues are typically addressed within 24 hours.
