Optimization of Work Zone Segments on Urban Roads Using Cellular Automata Model in Mixed Traffic

Increased delays and reduced speeds in work zones leads to  congestion. This can be improved by optimizing the work zone length. The focus of this study is to model work zones using  cellular automata model and to find the effects of work zones on traffic flow. The methodology adopted in the study involved creating work zone on the road by blocking some of the cells and then determining traffic characteristics such as delay and queue lengths for model validation.   For this the lateral movement rules of the existing Cellular Automata model were modified in order to replicate the traffic movement near work zones. This model is calibrated and validated using data from work zone observed near a metro rail station in Delhi. From the analysis it was evident that the queue length increased with increase in the length of work zone. Several relationships were tried between delay and work zone   length.   Among them the rational form was found suitable.