Traffic Congestion at Road Intersections in Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper examined traffic congestion problems and their causes at selected road intersections in Ilorin, Nigeria. The
characteristics of the intersections that predispose them to congestion problems and the spatial pattern of traffic congestion at
the road intersections were also identified. In addition, traffic volume and delays were estimated and causes of delays identified.
Data were collected through direct field survey on intersection characteristics, traffic volume and composition, traffic delay and
causes and land use activities. Data were also collected from past research reports, journals, textbooks, maps and the Internet.
The analysis of data collected revealed that spatio-temporal variations exist in traffic flows and delays at the studied
intersections. Also, traffic wardens and parking problems were found to be the greatest causes of delays at the road
intersections in the city. The study therefore 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.