Estimation of traffic parameters and traffic flow modelling for expressways using entry – exit data

(A case study of traffic flow of Colombo – Katunayake Expressway in Sri Lanka)

J.A.T.N. Jayakody , P.R.D. Fernando , I.M.S. Sathyaprasad , A.M.R.G. Athapaththu
Department of Civil Engineering , Faculty of Engineering , University of Peradeniya , Sri Lanka

Speed, flow and volume are the most important elements of the traffic flow. In this study, the speed-
density regression models are compared between congested city road and the tolled highway based on
traffic flow data on Colombo – Katunayake Expressway (E03) in Sri Lanka, which are collected by
Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system on each interchange. The speed-density regression curves are
analyzed based on six the classical models: Greenshields, Greenberg, Underwood, Eddi, Two regime and
Three regime models. Before and after connecting E03 to Outer Circular Highway(E02) and Southern
Expessway (E01) via Kerawalapitiya interchange, the variation of basic traffic flow parameters is
addressed during this research. Model development and regression analysis of each model was carried out
with the aid of Microsoft Excel, Minitab and Rstudio software.

Keywords: Flow, Speed, Density, Speed-density relations, Entry – Exit data, Traffic flow models