Enhancing Traffic Management in Harare Central Business District: A Comprehensive Study on the Integration of Intelligent Transportation Systems.

Abstract

The research is set out to see how ITS could offer a solution to the problem of traffic control in the heart of Harare, which is referred to as the Central Business District. With increasing growth and urbanization of Harare CBD, the emergence of traffic congestion resulted in delays, increased levels of pollution, and generally reduced quality of life for citizens. The research effort solely aims to investigate the application and effect of ITS technologies within the CBD with a view to improving traffic flow, easing congestion, and increasing transportation productivity. Literature reviewed traffic management strategies; it also highlighted challenges that face traffic management in an urban area. In addition, it investigates transportation systems, particularly those utilizing technologies in optimizing traffic operations. Moreover, it provides case studies of the deployment of ITS in cities with valuable insights and lessons that can be adapted to Harare's circumstances. The methodology section describes the research design and approach adopted and details the data collection methods used. It will help in understanding the existing pattern of traffic, identify congestion hotspots in Harare CBD and effectiveness of the present system of traffic management through surveys, interviews, and analysis of traffic data. The research will study in detail the Harare Central Business District focusing on its characteristics and transport system. Research regarding traffic will be done to study the current scenario of the CBD area in detail. This analysis will find key issues and challenges associated with traffic congestion and management, proving a base in the evaluation of the effectiveness of the ITS technologies in addressing these. The following chapters explore and propose ITS solutions for Harare. An overview of the applicable ITS technologies is given with an explanation of their potential benefits and drawbacks. The research will then produce specific ITS solutions that suit Harare CBD's needs by considering the local context, the infrastructure, and resources available. The chapter on implementation and evaluation will devise a strategy of how the chosen ITS technologies can be implemented in the CBD. This shall ensure practicality by assessing feasibility and cost-effectiveness. To this end, the impact these solutions will have on traffic flow and congestion reduction will be assessed, providing empirical evidence of their efficacy. It is, therefore, in the light of the above that this dissertation seeks to supplement this scant body of knowledge by providing important insights into the potential that intelligent transportation systems have in traffic management in Harare CBD. The findings and recommendations will, therefore, help in the better decision-making processes that must be made by policymakers, urban planners, and transportation authorities with a view to improving traffic conditions and the general urban mobility experience in the CBD of Harare