Impact of Physical Features on Traffic Congestion: A Case Study of Natore Sadar, Rajshahi, Bangladesh

Abstract

Urban traffic congestion is a critical issue in fast-growing cities, affecting economic productivity, environmental sustainability, and public health. This study observes the impact of physical infrastructure on traffic congestion in Natore Sadar, Rajshahi, Bangladesh, focusing on the relationship between road capacity, vehicle composition, and traffic flow dynamics. Data was collected through manual vehicle counting at three major intersections Madrasamor, Nichabazar, and Station Bazar during peak traffic hours in December 2022 and January 2023. Vehicle categories encompassed auto-rickshaws, motorbikes, cars, trucks, and non-motorized vehicles. The Passenger Car Unit (PCU) methodology was used to standardize vehicle impact on traffic flow, and the capacity adequacy index (CAI) and Lindley’s Congestion Index (LCI) were employed to assess congestion levels. The findings reveal that intersections with narrower lanes, frequent intersections, and a higher proportion of auto-rickshaws and trucks exhibited the highest congestion. Specifically, the Madrasamor intersection showed the most severe congestion, with CAI values exceeding 120%, indicating road capacity was significantly overloaded. The study concludes that infrastructure improvements, such as lane widening, intersection redesigns, and enhanced traffic management strategies, are essential for mitigating congestion. Promoting public transportation and better regulating non-motorized vehicles are also critical to improving traffic flow. These findings provide valuable insights for urban planners aiming to address traffic congestion in emerging cities.