Assessment of Traffic Delay Problems and Characteristics at Urban Road Intersections: A Case Study of Ilorin, Nigeria.

Abstract

Traffic delay problems are manifesting in many of the major urban centres in Nigeria. The paper examined traffic delay problem and its causes at selected road intersections in Ilorin, Nigeria. The characteristics of the intersections that predispose them to delay problem and the spatial pattern of traffic delay at the road intersections were also identified. In addition, traffic volume and delay characteristics were estimated. Data were collected through direct field surveys on intersection characteristics, traffic volume, composition, delay causes and land use activities. The analysis of data collected revealed that variations exist in traffic flows and delays at the studied intersections. Also, traffic delays are discovered to be associated with the traffic volumes at the various junctions which ultimately translate to traffic congestion. Furthermore, traffic wardens and parking problems were found to be the greatest causes of delays at the road intersections in the city. The study therefore recommends that the road intersections be signalized and vehicle parking be strictly prohibited to reduce traffic congestion and delays at road intersections in the city.