Analysis of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGVs) Operating Speed Exiting Meru Tunnel

Abstract

Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) play a crucial role in the movement of goods within regions and countries. Despite their importance to economic well-being, the increasing volume of HGVs raises safety concerns, as their distinctive characteristics, such as length and mass, significantly influence traffic performance. The Meru Tunnel on the North-South Expressway is a major link for goods transportation in Malaysia, but little is known about HGV operations in this area. This study aims to analyse HGV operating speed and the influence of their proportion in the traffic flow when exiting the tunnel. Spot speed and volume data were collected at two locations, including the tunnel exit and 50 meters ahead. Statistical analyses of the data were performed using Minitab software. Findings revealed that the majority of HGVs adhere to the speed limit of 80 km/h. Moreover, a multiple regression model indicates a reduction in speed with an increasing proportion of HGVs. However, paired t-test findings show no significant speed difference between the two locations. This lack of significance is attributed to high traffic volume during data collection, forcing drivers to be more cautious, resulting less variations in speed. The findings provide valuable insights, that can serve as the basis for practical measures to enhance the safe operation of HGVs in this area.