ANALYSIS OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN ABAKPA–NIKE ROAD NETWORK INTERSECTIONS

ABSTRACT

Abakpa-Nike is notorious for chaotic traffic due to driver’s indiscipline and poor road network. This study was therefore undertaken to determine the level of traffic congestion at four major intersections: The Abakpa-Nike- Trans-Ekulu T-Junction; Abakpa-Nike Liberty Junction; Afia Abakpa Junction and Nowas Roundabout Intersection in Abakpa-Nike area of Enugu, Enugu State. These intersections are notorious for high traffic volumes. Vehicular traffic volume were measured to quantify overall vehicular traffic movements with emphasis on vehicular traffic during the morning and evening peak hours. Delay and capacity were indices that were used to estimate congestion levels. The result from this study showed that there is traffic congestion at all intersection with an average delay of 273 vhe./sec.; while traffic capacities at the intersections were exceeded. The mobility level at the intersections also surpassed acceptable levels constituting excruciating driving experiences at these intersections. This will further deteriorate and the intersections become impassable should vehicular traffic volume continue to soar at the projected 7% according to the study. The study recommended increasing road and intersection capacities and the improvement of road traffic management in the study area among other recommendations.