Traffic Studies and VISSIM Analysis Sambrial-Kharian Motorway

Abstract

NHA intends to extend Lahore Sialkot motorway from its end point at Sambrial towards Kharian (Phase-1) and onward towards Rawalpindi/Islamabad (Phase-2). The total length of the project being conceived between Sambrial to Kharian (Phase-1) is 68 km, including link highway at Kharian connecting to national highway N-5. The proposed alignment of Sambrial Kharian motorway traverses across major populated areas in district Gujrat. The traffic study carried out contains traffic counts, which were carried out for 24 hours consecutively for three (03) days. Total 17 (seventeen) traffic count locations were selected after field visits. Traffic volumes were collected from these locations which connect major regions/population centers along the proposed alignment of motorway. Historical growth trends were reviewed to determine Population growth, growth in GDP, growth of registered vehicles in Pakistan, growth of registered vehicles in Punjab, growth in fuel consumption etc. Origin destination (OD) survey was carried out at selected locations to assess travel patterns between transportation analysis zones (TAZs). Data was analyzed through specialized travel demand modeling software i.e. PTV VISSIM . Maximum-car technique and average-car technique was adopted for travel time survey. Data obtained from travel time survey was used in calibration of VISSIM for analysis. Links along with interchanges were drawn and traffic volume was coded in modelling software. Choice of route was evaluated Origin-Destination Survey using the TAZ’s. Vissim analysis was performed to predict the Level of Service throughout the design period. Remedial measures were suggested where the LOS fell below the acceptable range.