WEB-BASED MULTIMODAL TRAVELLER INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR INTER-URBAN TRIPS FROM AKURE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Travellers Information System is a type of intelligent transportation system that employs emerging computer, communication, and information technologies to provide vital information to the users of the system. In this study both primary and secondary data were used. The primary data relate to information gathered through field exercise, while the secondary data relate to information generated from Google map Application Programmable Interface (API). Google maps allow building of location enabled framework. It offers satellite images, street map, 3600 panoramic view of streets, real-time traffic conditions and route planning of travelling by foot, car, bicycle, air or public transportation. The programming languages used include the javascript, ajax(asynchronous javascript and xml),json (javascript object notation), html5 (hyper textmarkup language five), vs code (visual studio code). Traffic count was taken on five roads which most of the transportation company’s vehicle ply so as to check for the traffic condition of the roads. Web-based Multimodal advanced traveller information system was developed, which supplies information to trip makers within Akure metropolis. The system provide information such as the available route from the origin of the traveller to his or her destination, the travel time, distance of each route, closest facilities like hotels, hospitals, restaurants, airline services, parks Bus-stop, Automated Teller Machines, Banks, Churches, Mosque and so on along the route. The traffic count carried out reveal that Oyemekun road has the highest volume of traffic followed by Akure-Ado road, Akure-Ondo, Akure-Owo and lastly Futa North gate road. The reason for the highest volume of traffic recorded at Oyemekun road is as a result of it location close to the CBD (Central Business District) while the lowest volume of traffic recorded for FUTA North gate is as a result of it location almost at the outskirt of the town. The web-based multi-modal traveller’s information system created will help trip makers in Akure metropolis minimize the cost of their trips, by reducing travel time, energy consumption, and transport fare. Travellers are advised to embark on their journey earlier than the peak periods so as to avoid delay. Ondo state government should maximally utilize this study as it will help improve the efficiency and safety of the road.