Applications of Surveying and Geoinformatics for Planning New Routes to Solve Traffic Congestion in part of Minna Metropolis (Kpakungu, a case study)

The volume of traffic generated by land-use pattern varies during different periods of the day but there is usually a predictable pattern of such traffic volumes. Most often, the structure of urban land-use fails to provide easy and convenient traffic movement, which in the case of the study area is usually that of vehicles and pedestrian traffic. The fact is that Minna is presently experiencing rapid urban growth. Both the authorities and citizens seem to simply ignore this and its impact on human existence. The research is based on Road Traffic Network Analysis in Minna, to develop a road network map and determine the causes of Traffic Congestion in Kpakungu specifically. Quickbird satellite imagery was used in analyzing and mapping out the existing road network within the study area. Field survey aspects involving measuring of roads, traffic count, coordinates captured were also undertaken. It was discovered that the causes of the traffic pressure in the study area was as a result of the relocation of Federal University of Technology, Minna to its permanent site in Gidan Kwanu and the relocation of National Examination Council(NECO) Headquarter. Majority of the traffic pressure in the area were as a result of vehicles coming from Maikunkele, Bosso, Maitumbi, Minna central, Dutsen Kura, Chanchaga, Tunga, Sahuka-kahuta and BarikinSale going to Bida, Gidan-Kwanu or NECO office. It was concluded that alternative roads should be provided for vehicle diversion to limit the congestion of traffic on the road.