DEVELOPMENT OF A STRATEGIC TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE FROM PWD TRAFFIC COUNTS

Public Works Departments (PWD) traffic counts were used as a source of origin-destination data for a strategic transport infrastructure model. This used a seed matrix of prior origin-destination cell matrix reflecting the trip distribution and travel behaviour of the travellers. Alternative methods not using a seed matrix are also described. A transport infrastructure development plan for Gujarat State, India up to 2017 was developed. This plan includes ports and planned enhancements of coastal and rail transport in the future. Both freight and passenger transport are considered. Considering the scenario that only the minimum would be done to improve the network, increasing congestion would result in a sharp reduction in the speed of vehicles. The effects of network improvements were modelled on the basis of recommended World Bank projects and prioritisation of plans made. The major change planned compared with earlier suggestions is improvements to roads connecting with ports.