Importance of Traffic Engineering in Making our Roads Safer

An efficient and effective movement of all types of traffic, from pedestrian, animal driven vehicles to automobiles, is critical for the smooth working of the roads and highways. We need systems in place which ensure a free and efficient flow of traffic by doing extensive research which results in dynamic & innovative designing of the roads. 

Traffic engineering and management is the answer to all these needs. It is a branch of engineering that works on planning, designing and traffic operations of the roads, streets, highways and their tertiary roads; adjoining lands; links with other modes of transportation. It primarily works on the connectivity of the entire web of the roads with all possible interdependent factors.The importance of traffic engineering lies in the fact that it works towards optimising the performance and efficiency of the movement of people, goods and transportation.

Traffic engineering, as a science, works towards maximising the traffic flow while reducing the congestion on the roads, both human and automobile. Extensive studies and research are conducted by collecting and analysing data on road construction, condition of roads, accident statistics, speed data, load of traffic on particular routes, general traffic conditions, land development, traffic signals, and many other factors, to come up with new and inventive ways to optimise the construction of roads, highways and other forms of ground transport.

The importance of traffic engineering can be seen significantly in the following: 

a) Providing an efficient flow of traffic through extensive research and innovative design

b) Works towards ensuring the free flow of traffic

c) It designs effective ways to ensure a rapid movement of traffic

d) Geared towards providing the safety of the traffic on the roads

e) Uses research to develop roads and highways that improve traffic safety by the strategic      implementation of traffic lights, traffic signs and stop signs.

Therefore, by following the framework, guidelines and safeguards set in place by traffic engineering safe, convenient, hassle-free and economical transportation of persons and goods can be achieved.