Monetary Evaluation of Congestion at Signalized Intersections in Ahmedabad.
Authors :- Dhavne, M.S., Shah, J.H.
Publication :- Innovation in Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure, Volume 2. ISSI 2022. Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering, vol 485. Springer, 2024
Everyday thousands of road users spend their valuable time in traffic congestion, subsequent wastage of fuel and emissions from it resulting in health implications like stress, frustration, respiratory diseases and reduced health of road users. Apart from these concerns, monetary loss due to delay and congestion is substantial and layman understands tangible calculation better than anything. The present study aims to assess the congestion cost for peak hours by evaluating delay, traffic volume, occupancy, value of time, engine switch-off behavior and other minor parameters for four different types of intersections in Ahmedabad having mixed traffic conditions. Cost incurred due to productivity loss, fuel loss due to idling of vehicles and environmental emissions is collectively termed as congestion cost. Mitigation strategies such as proposal of grade separator and effect of mode shift on congestion cost are further investigated. A study of this kind will persuade legislators and policymakers to create and implement strict traffic laws as well as allocate resources in an effective and efficient manner.