Analysis of the Impact of Religious Activities on Traffic Flow along Mowe-Ibafo Axis of Lagos – Ibadan Expressway

Abstract

The increase in the number of religious centres as well as that of worshippers in Nigeria is alarming and unprecedented and it has also come with attendant problems; part of which is the degradation of the environment and more importantly traffic congestion. This paper examines the impact of religious activities on traffic flow and the implication for environmental sustainability along Mowe-Ibafo axis of Lagos – Ibadan Expressway. Using perceptual view of respondents generated through primary data of structured questionnaires as well as traffic count along the route, findings emanating from the study show that religious activities along this route have had adverse effects on the area with severe negative effect on traffic flow pattern as well as sustainable development. Empirical result generated also shows that the volume of traffic is a major factor along the axis but type of vehicle is not a major determinant of traffic flow in the study area. The study observed non-existing abatement strategies for curbing and  coping with the problems and thus suggest solutions towards ameliorating traffic flow which include strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations in the area which would involve law enforcement agents as well as collaboration with the religious organization along the axis in maintaining traffic flow and preventing congestion.

Keywords: Religious Activities, Environment, Traffic Flow, Sustainable Development.