What is Traffic Islands?
Traffic islands may be defined as an area between traffic lanes for control
of vehicle movements. An intersection area’s median or outer separation is
regarded as an island. They minimize regions of considerable and minor
conflict.
The island shows physical channels through which vehicular traffic may be
directed to travel and neglect conflict. There are different types of traffic
islands available.
Types of Traffic Island
Traffic islands usually serve more than one function but maybe generally classified
into four separate types:
1. Channelizing Islands
2. Divisional Islands
3. Pedestrian Islands
4. Rotary Islands
[Link] Islands
These are planned to handle and direct traffic movement, mostly in turn.
They are convenient for intersections at grade, especially when the area is
extensive. The size and shape of the channelizing island will differ
depending on the layout and dimensions of the intersection.
[Link] Islands
These are planned to separate opposing or same-direction traffic streams
through movements.
[Link] island
This is the big central island of the rotary intersection. This allows to transform
crossing maneuvers to weaving by delivering adequate weaving length.
4. Pedestrian Islands (Refuge Island)
Pedestrian islands are provided to operate as safe zones for helping and
guarding persons on foot. If a divisional island is encountered in an urban
area where pedestrians are attending, pieces of each island can be
regarded as a refuge islan
Design Considerations for Traffic Islands
The whole design of traffic islands can be performed in three stages:
A. Selection of Appropriate Island Type
Each intersection’s site and traffic requirements vary, so the island type
appropriate for each needs a particular concentration.
The traffic island fixed varies from barrier-type islands to flush islands
observed on the roadway surface.
B. Determination of the Shape and Size of Islands
We must evaluate the size and shape of the traffic islands that will be
constructed on the road. The role of each traffic island is specified by its
size and shape. A median traffic island is a traffic island that is more
extended than wide. Its role is to separate traffic flow.
C. Location Relative to Adjacent Traffic Lanes
The islands must be offset from the roadway by a few distances to clear
the danger of a vehicle running against the same. The width of the offset is
greatest at the island’s entrance and drops slowly as one moves toward the
end of it.
Function of Traffic Island
The function of Traffic Island is as follows:
1. They separate vehicular traffic from walking people.
2. They decrease the conflict spots.
3. They separate traffic into specification paths.
4. They improve traffic safety.
5. They improve the traffic capacity of the road.
[Link] Safety
Reduce vehicular speed by narrowing lanes.
Offer safe zones for pedestrians at crossings.
[Link] Traffic Flow
Prevent congestion by guiding vehicles into designated paths.
Minimize conflicts at intersections through proper channelization.
[Link] and Environmental Benefits
Often landscaped with greenery, contributing to the environment and urban
beautification.
Reduce heat from roads by introducing vegetation.
Advantages of Traffic Islands
The advantages of Traffic Islands are as follows:
1. The one-way movement delivers orderly and disciplined traffic flow.
2. Regular stopping and starting of automobiles are bypassed.
3. Direct conflict is stopped.
4. All turns can be completed with comfort.
5. For medium traffic, rotaries are self-governing and require no supervision by
police or traffic signals.
6. The capacity of rotary islands is the highest of all other islands.
7. Prevents accidents by controlling vehicle movements.
8. Reduces pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.
9. Enhances road discipline and clarity for drivers.
10. Adds greenery and improves the urban environment.
Disadvantages of Traffic Islands
The disadvantages of Traffic Islands are as follows:
1. It needs large of land. So where space is limited and costly, the whole cost
may be increased.
2. Where pedestrian traffic is influential, the islands cannot handle the traffic
and requires control by traffic police. If the vehicular traffic has to stop to
permit the pedestrian to walk, the immediate use of the islands has defected.
3. At locations of mixed traffic, the design of the island evolves too
complicated, and the operation and control of traffic evolve problematic.
4. A Islands becomes problematic when the length between the intersections on
important highways is less.
5. At places of mixed traffic, there is a proneness to violate the traffic law of
clockwise movement.
6. Where the traffic volume is insufficient, making a rotary cannot be
explained.
7. High construction and maintenance costs.
8. Misuse by vendors or parked vehicles, reducing effectiveness.
9. Potential for confusion among drivers unfamiliar with traffic islands.
Case Studies
[Link] Example: Delhi, India
Traffic islands at major intersections in Delhi have improved pedestrian
safety and reduced traffic congestion.
Integrated with landscaping and solar-powered lights for sustainability.
2International Example: London, UK
Use of pedestrian refuge islands and roundabouts has significantly
enhanced traffic flow.
Effective signage and education campaigns have improved user
compliance.
Recommendations
1. Conduct feasibility studies before implementation.
2. Regularly maintain and upgrade existing traffic islands.
3. Educate the public on their importance and proper usage.
4. Incorporate technology, such as solar-powered lights, for sustainability.
Conclusion
Traffic islands play a vital role in urban traffic management, providing
safety, functionality, and aesthetic value. Proper design, implementation,
and maintenance are crucial for maximizing their benefits and ensuring
they effectively serve their purpose in diverse road environments.
Traffic islands are indispensable in modern road networks, contributing to
safety, efficiency, and urban aesthetics. Their design and implementation
require careful consideration of local traffic patterns, environmental
conditions, and budget constraints. By addressing current challenges and
leveraging innovative solutions, traffic islands can continue to play a vital
role in creating safer and more organized roads worldwide.
References
[Link] Engineering Book by vaibhav sonarkar
[Link] Enginnering Book by [Link]
