Module 6 : Traffic Intersection Control
Lecture 27 : Principles of Traffic Control
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Channelized intersection

Vehicles approaching an intersection are directed to definite paths by islands, marking etc. and this method of control is called Channelization. Channelized intersection provides more safety and efficiency. It reduces the number of possible conflicts by reducing the area of conflicts available in the carriageway. If no channelizing is provided the driver will have less tendency to reduce the speed while entering the intersection from the carriageway. The presence of traffic islands, markings etc. forces the driver to reduce the speed and becomes more cautious while maneuvering the intersection. A channelizing island also serves as a refuge for pedestrians and makes pedestrian crossing safer. Channelization of traffic through a three-legged intersection (refer figure  1) and a four-legged intersection (refer figure 2) is shown in the figure.
Figure 1: Channelization of traffic through a three-legged intersection
\begin{figure}
\centerline{\epsfig{file=t79-channelising-island-1.eps,width=8cm}}
\end{figure}
Figure 2: Channelization of traffic through a four-legged intersection
\begin{figure}
\centerline{\epsfig{file=t80-channelising-island-2.eps,width=8cm}}
\end{figure}