Effectiveness of Reversible Lane Systems in Kathmandu Valley: A Case Study of Jadibuti-Koteshwor Section

Rojee Pradhananga; Aayush  Pandit; Aaditya Raj  Bhattarai; Aashish  Chaudhary; Ankit  Rawal; Bibek  Adhikari

Rojee Pradhananga Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Aayush Pandit Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Aaditya Raj Bhattarai Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Aashish Chaudhary Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Ankit Rawal Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Bibek Adhikari Department of Civil Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal

Keywords: Traffic Congestion, Reversible Lane System, VISSIM

Abstract

The sudden rise of traffic congestion in Kathmandu valley has not only caused a dent in the economy but is also problematic to many people living in the Kathmandu valley. Influences due to various factors related to unplanned urbanization and traffic congestion have ultimately affected the valley to achieve its planned objectives. Reversible Lane System (RLS) is a dynamic real time solution to reduce congestion and its optimization. This study investigates applicability of RLS as a case study of urban section in Kathmandu valley to improve traffic at morning and evening peak hours. A microsimulation model to test the section was developed using VISSIM. Test results show that the introduction of RLS at the section can reduce the queue lengths at the most queued locations by more than 50% and improve the travel times by 11% on average during the morning and evening peak hours.