Optimizing Traffic Control at Intersection: A Case Study of Kurukshetra City, India

Abstract: The growing number of vehicles in India and other major developing countries has significantly
contributed to traffic congestion, which in turn increases air pollution, fuel consumption,
economic losses, and safety risks. This situation lowers the quality of life and places
considerable stress on infrastructure. Traffic congestion is often intensified at intersections,
which are critical bottlenecks in road networks. Associated problems at intersections include
delays, increased queue lengths, and a reduced level of service (LOS). Addressing these issues
is essential for enhancing the efficiency and performance of intersections. The present study
aims to evaluate and improve the performance of two key intersections in Kurukshetra,
Haryana, India. To achieve this, vehicular data was extracted at five-minute intervals from
videos captured during a 15-minute period in the evening hours using a drone. This method
provided a comprehensive overview of traffic patterns and volumes. Additionally, road
inventory data was collected through image processing techniques and verified by field
observations to ensure accuracy. Georeferencing was employed to accurately simulate the
developed traffic models. The selected intersections were analyzed under two scenarios i.e.
with and without traffic signals, utilizing the micro-simulation tool PTV VISSIM. This tool
allowed for a detailed analysis of various traffic parameters including delays, queue lengths,
and LOS. The analysis revealed that converting the studied intersections into signalized
intersections can significantly improve their performance. Specifically, the LOS at these
intersections showed marked improvement, which suggests that signalization could be a viable
solution to alleviate congestion and enhance traffic flow. Moreover, the study highlights the
importance of integrating modern technology, such as drones traffic monitoring and advanced
simulation tools, in urban traffic management. By focusing on these intersections, the study
provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of signalization in similar urban settings.
The findings underscore the need for strategic planning and implementation of traffic control
measures to improve the overall efficiency of road networks in developing countries. This
research not only contributes to the field of traffic engineering but also offers practical
recommendations for policymakers and urban planners aiming to address the growing
challenges of traffic congestion and its associated impacts. Road safety may be increased, travel
times can be shortened, and vehicle emissions can be decreased with better Intersection
performance. Adopting signalized crossings can also minimize economic costs from traffic
delays and maximize fuel efficiency.