APPRAISAL OF TRAFFIC CONGESTION OF ROAD INTERSECTIONS AND ITS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES IN OSOGBO, NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper evaluates road traffic congestion in the major traffic intersections of Osogbo, Nigeria. The study uses primary data which were obtained through accidental and purposive sampling techniques from 250 respondents in Osogbo. Direct observation was also adopted in the study. The variables used in the analysis include: intersection characteristics, traffic volume and composition, causes and effects of road traffic congestion, land use activities and management techniques adopted for road traffic control. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and frequency distribution in form of percentages were used for the data analysis. Finding from this study revealed that statistical variations exit in traffic flows and delays at the studied intersections as reported by Analysis of variance (ANOVA) OF f=54.774 and P=0.000.Also, high volume of traffic, parking problems and street trading were found to be the greatest causes of delays, while lateness to work is what respondents described as being the most undesirable effects of road traffic congestion at the road intersections in the city The study recommends that the road intersections be signalized and vehicle parking be strictly prohibited at road intersections to reduce traffic congestion  and delays at road intersections in the city.