Evaluation of right-turn lanes at signalized intersection in non-lane-based heterogeneous traffic using microscopic simulation model

Abstract

In developing countries like India, the traffic on urban roads is highly heterogeneous in nature, with vehicles of widely varying static and dynamic characteristics. This type of traffic is characterized by lack of queue and lane discipline (lane-less movement) based on availability of spaces near intersections. Moreover, at intersections, straight-through, left-, and right-turning vehicles seek to occupy the same physical space. In such situations, the through vehicles are susceptible to delays in the absence of turn lanes for the left-turning and right-turning vehicles and vice versa. Models suitable for analysis of such traffic flow hardly exist, and most of the available models are limited in scope. In the current study, a microscopic traffic simulation model for signalized intersection is developed specifically for heterogeneous traffic. This model covers different vehicle types and allows for some special behavior, such as seepage of two-wheelers to fronts of queues. Detailed study of queue formation and dissipation were done microscopically under non-lane-based traffic conditions near intersection area. The model was calibrated and tested with data from Chennai city, India, and its predictions were found to be in close agreement with the field data. In addition, the model makes a significant contribution to the study of right-turn lane (RTL) on delays to vehicles. In general, RTL is found to be advantageous for most cases of approach volumes and right-turn proportions. The optimal lengths of RTL are suggested for various approach volumes and right-turn proportions.