International Journal of Human Capital in Urban Management

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Traffic congestion, a prevalent global issue, has entrenched itself as a persistent problem, posing substantial challenges for residents and commuters, especially in developing nations. This study addresses this concern by delving into the intensity, patterns, and traffic characteristics within selected road corridors in the Abeokuta metropolis, Nigeria.
METHODS: Data on road types and land use were systematically gathered through structured observations using a pre-designed checklist. Traffic counts were conducted to capture characteristics during the morning and evening peak periods. Traffic volume and capacity were measured in "vehicles per hour" (vph) and Passenger Car Units per hour (PCU/hr). To analyze the data, a chi-square test was used to examine differences in traffic volume between the peak hours, while Analysis of Variance  was applied to assess variations in traffic composition across the studied road corridors.
FINDINGS: The study's findings spotlight Sapo-Ijaye-Iyana Mortuary, recording the highest daily peak traffic volume at 2315 vph, with cars dominating at 4444 vph. Buses emerged as the most impactful vehicle class, influencing 4872 PCU/hr. The Chi-square test indicates no significant differences in vph between morning and evening peaks (x=0.822604; p=0.84405). Correspondingly, Analysis of Variance results (f=3.3106; p=1.0000) suggest that traffic composition did not significantly differ across the surveyed roads.
CONCLUSION:  Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended to enhance road capacities by upgrading infrastructure to accommodate both current and future transportation needs. Additionally, the development of alternative traffic routes, such as rail lines, is suggested to ease the movement of heavy-duty trucks and reduce road congestion. The adoption of intelligent transportation systems is also encouraged to improve traffic management and optimize transportation efficiency.

Abstract BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: One of the most challenging aspects of city living is traffic congestion. The multitude of vehicular modes and their sheer volume coupled with inadequate road infrastructure unable to keep up with the escalated travel demand of Kolkata is a major cause of concern. Recognizing the significant toll on commuters' time and health, the research aims to identify the root causes of congestion across fifteen selected Traffic Intersection Points, explore its multifaceted impacts on the environment, economy, and society, and propose solutions to alleviate this pressing issue effectively.
METHODS: This study employed a mixed-method approach. An on-site survey with 375 regular commuters in Kolkata was conducted, utilizing questionnaires and focus group discussions. The survey gathered data on travel patterns, socio-demographic information, and perceptions of traffic congestion. The Garrett Ranking method and Relative Importance Index (RII) were employed to evaluate the significance of various contributing factors, their impact on commuters, and potential solutions. Statistical analysis using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 26 complemented the data analysis, with cartographic visualizations providing spatial insights. Additionally, the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test validated the differences in travel times during congested and free-flowing traffic conditions.
FINDINGS: The results revealed that the commuters’ average daily travel delay owing to congestion is approximately 17 minutes. Utilizing Garrett score ratings, the most significant obstacles to smooth traffic flow were identified as intersectional conflicts (66.19) and curbside parking (64.75).Following the same methodology, increased reliance on personalized vehicles (69.87) and encroached road space (64.3) were attributed to rush hour saturation, whereas political rallies (71.36) and demonstrations (59.74) contributed to unprecedented incidents. Work schedule disruptions and hearing anomalies were the most common offshoots of this hazard. Relative Importance Index (RII) scores highlighted the consensus among commuters emphasizing the economic, environmental, and social impact of congestion, with particular emphasis on enhanced fuel consumption (RII=1), decreased economic opportunities (RII=0.96), worsened pollution levels (RII=0.91), and reduced family time (RII=0.93). Congestion pricing (RII=0.88) and ride-sharing (RII=0.87) emerged as themost viable strategies to mitigate congestion. Furthermore, Garrett ratings indicated training of drivers (63.74) and road users (61.03) along with parking management (63.51) to be the most desired areas of improvisation suggested.
CONCLUSION: Implementing the ‘Avoid, Shift, Improve’ framework in conjunction with a 'people-first' mentality would encourage sustainable urban living by placing a premium on public transport, land use planning, and technological improvements to reduce traffic congestion and enhance commuter well-being in Kolkata.