Analysis and Remedy to Avert Traffic Congestion at Eke-Nibo Junction, Awka South L.G.A, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Congestion is one of the major challenges facing every growing and developing metropolis in Nigeria as a result of increase in population which constitutes increase in the volume of vehicular movement on roadways. Traffic congestion at Eke-Nibo is worrisome especially during festive periods, Eke-market days, weekends and whenever there is activity at the civic center and town Union hall adjacent to it. This study had a reconnaissance survey to investigate traffic and vehicular features, traffic count to ascertain the efficiency of the existing traffic signal system to alleviating congestion, and questionnaire that had eight sections with several questions on traffic problems and solutions. 300 questionnaires were prepared and distributed among the road users, but 267 were returned by the participants. The statistical tool SPSS was implored to analyse the data obtained from the respondents. The result affirmed that congestion occur mostly on festive periods, Eke market days and whenever there is social gathering at the event centres. Different factors causing road congestion were also found but the major among them are pavement parking, roadside trading, improper geometric layout at the junction and wrong traffic signal allocation. The study recommends adequate geometric layout, redesigning of traffic signal system, conversion of the existing tipper garage to general garage for both commercial and private use and law enforcement agency for traffic offenders.