TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — New Taipei's transport department said Thursday it has launched an automated canopy pilot program to provide shade for pedestrians waiting at traffic lights.

CNA reported the smart canopies have been installed at two intersections near Banqiao Station, an area with heavy foot traffic. 

Officials said the system was introduced from South Korea. The canopies are equipped with smart sensors that detect sunlight and wind conditions, automatically opening in strong sunlight and closing at night or during high winds to ensure safety, per Liberty Times.

When fully open, the canopies are about five meters across and can fold down to around 60 centimeters. The system is powered by solar energy and includes LED lighting to improve visibility and safety at night, per UDN.

The transport department said the locations were selected because they are major transit points with limited shade. Officials added that pedestrian-friendly signal timing at these intersections often results in longer wait times.

The department said it will collect user feedback and monitor performance during the trial period. The results will be used to assess whether the system should be expanded to other parts of the city, per Storm Media.