Comparative Analysis of Intersection Performance Using PCU Values from NRS and Indo HCM: A Case Study of New Baneshwor Intersection

Abstract

New Baneshwor is one of the main intersections and the epicentre of the Kathmandu Valley. This
study aims to analyze the capacity and level of Service at this intersection. Maitighar, Tinkune,
Sankhamul, and Old Baneshwor are the primary locations it connects, as it is one of the valley's
busiest and most crucial crossings. The Indo Highway Capacity Manual (Indo HCM) 2017 and
Nepal Road Standard 2070 documents assess the intersection's performance. A directional
classified traffic volume count is conducted to determine traffic flow during peak periods. Vehicles
are manually counted based on their different types. The Saturation Flow rate (SF) is computed
from the unit base saturation flow equation (USFₒ) by multiplying various adjustment factors for
other directions and phases. The input parameters for calculating capacity are the saturation flow
rate, effective green time, and total cycle duration for each direction. Total control delay and
Degree of saturation for each leg and flow direction are used to calculate the Level of Service
(LOS). The comparison between the v/c ratio and control delay at the New Baneshwor intersection
using PCU values based on NRS and Indo HCM indicates significant differences in congestion
levels and control delays, highlighting the impact of methodological variations on traffic
performance evaluation. The performance of using PCU from NRS is higher than that of using
PCU from Indo HCM. Using PCU values based on NRS and IndoHCM, it was ultimately
discovered that the overall Level of Service (LOS) was F for both the morning and evening peak
hours.