Analyzing Dynamics of Urban Traffic Congestion Using Google Traffic Data and Map Overlay Techniques

In recent years, traffic congestion has changed into a common challenge for traffic engineers in urban areas particularly where population density is high, and there is a significant reliance on private vehicles. Therefore, knowledge of how traffic congestion develops spatially and temporally, and exploring the propagating patterns, can be effective in providing appropriate solutions to reduce its negative consequences. The rapid development of information technologies and portable devices enables the collection of a large amount of traffic data, and therefore, enables the evaluation and analysis of traffic congestion in more detail. By applying Google traffic congestion images collected during one month of study (21st January-19th February 2018), change detection analysis for morning-peak was applied to investigate and monitor the expansion of traffic congestion. In the next step, the areas which experience congestion in 90% of times during morning peak hours have been explored using map overlay analyses. The results of this research can help urban planners and traffic engineers for improving infrastructure, suggesting better public transportation options, strategies for congestion pricing, smart traffic management systems, and policies that encourage sustainable transportation choices.