Traffic Congestion Analysis of Asaba Road Using Volume to Capacity Ratio and Speed Performance Index

Abstract

With Nnebisi Road acting as a case study, this study focuses on the investigation of traffic congestion on Asaba Road. The study aims to examine the relationship between vehicle volume and road capacity, enabling transportation authorities to assess congestion levels and make informed decisions to alleviate traffic issues. Peak traffic counts were conducted, revealing the highest traffic flow on specific road sections on different days. The Ibusa – Stadium junction saw the highest volume on Monday, reaching 3,056 vehicles, while Ibusa – Ofili-Ilukwu junction peaked at 3,128 vehicles, also on Monday, and Ibusa – Ogbeogonogo junction hit 3,151 vehicles on Tuesday. Speed performance index varied across junctions and days, generally exceeding 60%. For instance, Ibusa – Stadium Junction ranged from 69.57% to 71.82% from Monday to Friday, Ibusa – Ofili-Ilukwu junction showed values between 63.59% and 68.95%, and Ibusa – Ogbeogonogo Junction ranged from 61.57% to 70.11%. These findings suggest a better road traffic state with higher average speeds. Moreover, the volume to capacity ratio, indicates the level of congestion and delays experienced. The ratio values along the studied road sections ranged from 0.61 to 0.70. These ratios, along with the speed performance index, classify the level of service as class B, indicating moderate congestion and delays with slightly longer travel times, yet still acceptable to users.