Case Report
Integrating Engineering Surveys and User Perceptions to Assess Traffic Congestion: A Case Study of Dhaka City
Anika Nowshin Mowrin*
,
Kamruzzaman Haque Limon,
Azaz Ahmmed,
Mohammad Asadujjaman Anik
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 2, June 2026
Pages:
57-75
Received:
19 April 2026
Accepted:
3 May 2026
Published:
14 May 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijtet.20261202.11
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Views:
Abstract: Traffic congestion is a major urban transportation challenge in Dhaka, particularly along key arterial routes. This study assesses traffic congestion along the Banglamotor–Malibagh route using traffic performance analysis and questionnaire-based surveys. Field observations indicate severely degraded operating conditions, with volume-to-capacity (V/C) ratios of 1.01 and 1.04 in the two directions, confirming that traffic demand exceeds available roadway capacity. The route operates at Level of Service (LOS) F, characterized by unstable flow, frequent interrupted flow conditions, and low average speeds of 13.30 mph and 13.23 mph in the respective directions. Traffic composition analysis reveals that rickshaws, motorcycles and buses are the predominant contributors to congestion. In addition, on-street parking and roadside activities reduce effective carriageway width by approximately 20%–60%, further constraining capacity. A structured questionnaire survey conducted among route users including drivers, pedestrians, traffic police, and passengers reveals that non-motorized vehicles, inadequate pedestrian safety and uncontrolled passenger pick-up and drop-off activities are major operational challenges. Major findings of the study highlight that congestion is not solely a capacity issue but is strongly influenced by unmanaged mixed traffic operations and roadside disruptions. The study emphasizes that without proper regulation and coordination, infrastructure improvements alone are insufficient to address congestion. To improve traffic conditions, the study recommends signal optimization, control of non-motorized and slow-moving vehicles, provision of designated stopping areas and strengthened traffic management and enforcement. An integrated and coordinated approach is essential to enhance mobility and ensure sustainable transport performance along the route.
Abstract: Traffic congestion is a major urban transportation challenge in Dhaka, particularly along key arterial routes. This study assesses traffic congestion along the Banglamotor–Malibagh route using traffic performance analysis and questionnaire-based surveys. Field observations indicate severely degraded operating conditions, with volume-to-capacity (V/...
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