Distributed optical fiber sensing (DOFS), along with its capabilities of long-range coverage, multi-parameter monitoring, and completely passive detection, emerges as one of the most promising non-destructive detection techniques for structural health monitoring (SHM) and. Distributed optical fiber sensing (DOFS), along with its capabilities of long-range coverage, multi-parameter monitoring, and completely passive detection, emerges as one of the most promising non-destructive detection techniques for structural health monitoring (SHM) and. Distributed optical fiber sensing (DOFS), along with its capabilities of long-range coverage, multi-parameter monitoring, and completely passive detection, emerges as one of the most promising non-destructive detection techniques for structural health monitoring (SHM) and operational assessment of. Fiber-optic sensor (FOS) technologies, given their high sensitivity, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and suitability for harsh environments, have emerged as promising tools for enabling intelligent transportation infrastructure. This review critically examines the current landscape of. Enter Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS), a transformative technology that leverages existing fiber optic cables to provide continuous, real-time monitoring over long distances. In 1976, the first fiber optic gyroscope (FOG) for angular velocity measurement, exploiting the Sagnac effect, was realized. The following year, optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR) based on Rayleigh backscattering achieved the initial. A cutting-edge fiber optic sensing system, developed by researchers at Tongji University, leverages neural networks to classify vehicles with unprecedented accuracy. The system's innovative design uses spectroscopic and optical sensor technologies to provide critical data for road maintenance and.