Causes of Traffic Congestion and Possible Solutions along Akesan-Igando Road, Lagos Nigeria

Abstract

Many urban cities in Nigeria are bedeviled with traffic congestion which tends to defy various remedial measures adopted by different governments over the years. Journey times from one point to another within a town have remained unreliable and residents have continued to face disturbing in conveniences in transportation especially traffic congestion. This study, therefore, addresses the problems of traffic congestion impacts on commuters along Akesan-Igando road. The set objectives incudes: identifying pattern of traffic congestion at the Corridor, ascertaining the cause(s) of traffic congestion, determine what can be done to reduce traffic congestion in the study area. Basically, primary data was used for the research through direct observation, interview and field measurement. Drones were also deployed to capture images from the field. It was discovered from the field that the causes of traffic congestion along this corridor include: narrow road conditions, increase in population leading to increase in vehicle ownership, activities of road traders, illegal parking and poor enforcement. The study recommended thatthere should be proper and adequate enlightment for the drivers on the dangers inherent in congestion, the law enforcement agencies (Police and LASTMA) should be motivated in other to act professionally and not to take bribe from public bus drivers, street trader should be completely banned from displaying their wares on the set back which impedes the free flow of vehicular movement, the state government should intensify effort to ensure BRT is operational on this corridor andthere is need for improved traffic management system and of the road condition along the corridor.