An Evaluation of Intra-Urban Traffic Issues in Relation to the Road Design and Existing Infrastructure in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria

Conveying both people and goods from one place to another poses challenges to city authorities with rising population. The aim of this study sought to evaluate the Intra-Urban Traffic challenges in relation to the road design and existing infrastructure in Enugu Metropolis, Enugu State, Nigeria with the objectives of assessing the level of traffic congestion at the peak hours in the study area; evaluating the condition of the existing transport infrastructure and facilities in relation to road designs in the study area; and ascertaining the causes and characteristics of vehicular traffic composition of selected roads in Enugu metropolis. The study revealed that that most of the transport infrastructure and facilities needed urgent repairs, rehabilitation, expansion and reconstruction. Further studies showed that the level of traffic congestion along Ogbete/Holy Ghost axis, Enugu for the observed days are high due to high Average Peak Hour Factors of 0.93 and 0.94 respectively for morning and evening. Findings from the study also revealed that causes of traffic congestion included bad roads, breakdown of vehicles; traffic checks; roadside trading; on-street parking; increased car ownership; irregular bus stops; cultural and religious activities; and accidents. The study recommended that the Federal Road Safety Commission should implement Road Safety Policies to reduce accident and traffic congestion. Government should also redesign road network through the concerted efforts of the Town Planners and Architects to reduce traffic obstruction and congestion for sustainable intra-urban traffic management.