An Opinion Survey on Traffic Congestion along the Federal University of Technology Akure Main Route during Peak Periods

Abstract

Traffic congestion makes the transportation system sub-optimally functional and it simultaneously contributes to economic stagnation. Hence, urban traffic congestion has resulted in a high loss of labour productivity as well as a loss of several man-hours. Therefore, this study seeks to assess the performance of the FUTA junction - FUTA south gate route during rush hour periods, as well as examine the factors contributing to traffic congestion along the route to assess the impact on the road users, identify strategies to improve traffic flow along the route. The research employed a quantitative approach using a structured questionnaire administered purposively to a sample size of 384. Descriptive analysis was conducted using frequency distribution charts, mean, and standard deviation. Findings revealed that the performance of the route is relatively very poor considering the high dissatisfaction of the road users. The factors contributing to traffic congestion along the route were identified as the need for road expansion, roadside market, illegal parking, and lack of efficient mass transport. The study equally identified that the major impact on users is stress, noise pollution, air pollution, and adverse effect on business activities. The study hence recommended the expansion of road pavement for the route, and the provision of efficient public mass transportation.