A Study On Traffic Flow Characteristics For Four Lane Divided Highways In India

Abstract

The current study aims to find the capacity using traffic speed and volume on a multi-lane highway located in north Bihar. The present study analyzes three NH sections (North Bihar Region) having similar features but varying roadway and traffic conditions. The purpose of the study was to find the traffic flow, stream speed variation, and determine the capacity on such a highway where a higher level of heterogeneity (heavy vehicle range between 24-40%) occurs. There have been very few studies on such types of traffic conditions. Videography technique was used to collect traffic flow data. Using that data, stream speed for 5-minute intervals were determined. Fundamental equations were used for all calculations. It was found to be between 2700-3000 veh/hr/dir, which was low compared to HCM and Indo-HCM standards. The effect of heavy vehicles and shoulder width was also observed in this study. Finally, this study provides insight into traffic capacity on such highways, especially four-lane divided highways in Bihar.