Evaluation of VMS-Based Traffic Information Using Multiclass Dynamic Traffic Assignment Model: Experience in Kolkata

Abstract

The effect of on-road variable message sign (VMS)-based traffic information on mixed traffic stream is evaluated using a multiclass and stochastic dynamic traffic assignment model. Two types of traffic information are considered which differ in terms of the content displayed on VMS board: one, the instantaneous travel time alone (TI-I) and the other instantaneous travel time along with its variation level (TI-II). The work is demonstrated with reference to a case study in Kolkata Metro City. The analysis of study corridors in a dynamic paradigm indicates that VMS-based traffic information can be instrumental for temporal and spatial management of congestion at corridor level. The influence of VMS is found to be more predominant at higher traffic volume levels. The benefit gained under TI-II is estimated marginally higher than that of TI-I which encourages further investigation on VMS displaying multiple items as traffic information.