Journal of Road and Traffic Engineering

Pioneering Green Pathways: Ethiopia's Leap Forward in Climate-Smart Logistics and Eco-Transportation

Waiss Ali Aden — 2026-06-28

The global shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly gaining momentum, and Ethiopia is beginning to embrace this transition. Although the narrative around environmental sustainability has been central to the adoption of EVs, it is now clear that the transition to electric mobility is an inevitable progression. In recent years, Ethiopia has made notable strides in advancing its electric transportation sector, with significant efforts from both governmental bodies and private enterprises to increase the accessibility of EVs. Despite this progress, Ethiopia remains one of the countries with the lowest rate of EV adoption globally. Furthermore, there is limited comprehensive information to identify the key challenges that must be addressed to facilitate the decarbonization of passenger vehicle transport in Ethiopia. This study explores the feasibility of implementing green transportation strategies within Ethiopia's logistics industry, aiming to align with broader sustainable development goals. The paper presents findings from a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of the Ethiopian green vehicle market, which highlights the critical dynamics of the sector. The analysis reveals that while Ethiopia’s green vehicle market has significant strengths such as increasing awareness and potential for innovation several barriers hinder the widespread adoption of EVs. Among the most prominent challenges are the lack of well-defined policies and regulatory frameworks that establish clear EV targets, the high upfront costs of electric vehicles, inadequate electricity infrastructure, and a scarcity of public e-charging stations. These factors collectively impede the transition to electric mobility. The study proposes that offering financial incentives, such as subsidies for green vehicles, could facilitate the acquisition of modern EV fleets by companies, encouraging investment in proprietary charging infrastructure. These measures could improve energy efficiency and raise environmental awareness while fostering the development of a green public transportation system. This transition could ultimately contribute to broader environmental protection efforts and sustainable urban development in Ethiopia.

A Machine Learning for Predictive Traffic Modelling on Nigerian Roads: Bridging Sustainability and Performance

Israel Adewoye Adegboyega — 2026-06-28

The steady rise in vehicle numbers has intensified road congestion, making accurate traffic forecasting essential for effective traffic management in smart city environments, according to SDG 11. This study investigates the application of machine learning (ML) models for real-time traffic flow prediction on Nigerian roads, aiming to overcome the limitations of traditional forecasting techniques, which are often labor-intensive and imprecise. Day-to-day traffic stream forecasting is conducted using three models: The Multilayer Perceptron of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA), and the Support Vector Machine Regression (SMOreg). The models are trained and tested on six months of real traffic data collected from a road section, with performance evaluated against predefined criteria. Experimental results show that the proposed SMOreg model achieves the highest prediction accuracy, with an R² of 0.9861, 98.61% prediction accuracy, and the lowest absolute relative error of 0.77%. Evaluation metrics, including R-squared (R²), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) confirm the effectiveness of SMOreg, SARIMA, and MLP, with SMOreg outperforming the others. These findings highlight the potential of ML models to significantly enhance real-time traffic prediction, offering improved accuracy and efficiency over traditional methods.

Optimisation of Multi-Source Minimal Spanning Trees For Solid Waste Collection

Abolade D. Omiyale — 2026-06-28

This study develops a robust optimisation framework grounded in Multi-Source Minimum Spanning Trees (MS-MST), in which Kruskal’s Algorithm is systematically integrated with the Teaching–Learning-Based Optimisation (TLBO) technique to enhance the operational efficiency of solid waste collection systems. The proposed model is designed for semi-automatic collection and incorporates data from smart waste bins, enabling dynamic prioritisation of collection points based on real-time conditions. In doing so, it addresses well-documented limitations of conventional routing approaches, particularly their reliance on static routes and single-depot structures. The model's performance was evaluated on a simulated network that reflects realistic urban waste-collection conditions. The results indicate that the traditional collection system recorded a total traversal cost of 93 khrs. In contrast, the MS-MST framework achieved progressively lower costs across different configurations: 71 khrs for a single-source system, 65 khrs for a two-source system, and 60 khrs for a three-source system. These outcomes correspond to a maximum cost reduction of 35.48%, demonstrating the efficiency gains attainable through multi-source routing and metaheuristic optimisation. Further validation using real-world operational data reveals consistent improvements across key performance indicators, including reduced travel distance, lower fuel consumption, and shorter collection times. The findings demonstrate that the integration of MS-MST with TLBO offers a computationally efficient, scalable, and practically viable solution for modern urban waste management, particularly in environments characterised by decentralised collection infrastructure and variable waste-generation patterns.

Evaluation of Polymer Interlocking Paver Blocks Made of Waste Plastic Polyethylene Terephthalate and Sand Modified with Nano-Sized Palm Kernel Shells

Simeon Olutayo Odunfa — 2026-06-28

Demand for sustainable construction materials has driven research into utilizing waste in innovative ways. This paper focused on incorporating Nano-sized palm kernel shell with recycled waste plastic and sand to produce a Polymer Interlocking Pavement block using a mixed ratio of 1: 2 respectively. The chemical composition of Nano-sized palm kernel shell was examined with X-ray fluorescence Analysis. Effects of Nano-sized palm kernel shell at various percentages, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% as filler in the composite, were determined by performing compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and abrasive resistance tests. The micro-structural analysis was done with a Scanning Electron Microscope. The X-ray fluorescence Analysis revealed Iron (III) Oxide and Silicon Oxide as dominant oxides. The addition of Nano-sized palm kernel shell in Polymer Interlocking Pavement block increased the compressive strength by 14.26%, 24.94%, and 75.67% for 7, 21, and 28 days, respectively, at 5% replacement. Reduction in flexural strength, water absorption, and abrasion index with uniform distribution of particles was observed. Conclusively, 5% Nano-sized palm kernel shell gave better resistance to wear of the modified sample, and is considered a reasonable alternative material for Polymer Interlocking Pavement block production to promote sustainable construction practices

Assessing the Potential of Congestion Pricing in Small Cities: A Case Study of Niš, Serbia

Tijana Filic — 2026-06-28

As increasing urbanization continues to stimulate the growth of motorization rates, many cities facing traffic congestion are confronted with the challenge of selecting the most effective mobility management strategy. Although changing travel behavior is a complex process, numerous studies highlight the importance of transport policies in addressing traffic-related problems. One such policy, whose positive effects have contributed to reducing the number of private cars in the central areas of many cities, is known as congestion charging. However, the question remains to what extent the principles of congestion charging can be adapted to the local context of less developed urban areas while simultaneously encouraging changes in users’ travel behavior. Considering the above, the aim of this research is to analyze the factors influencing changes in travel behavior in the case of a hypothetical introduction of congestion charging within the central zone of the City of Niš (Serbia). The research results indicate the pricing policy that has the greatest impact on reducing users’ willingness to use private cars, thus providing a basis for decision-makers in developing strategies for reducing traffic congestion.

Analysis of the Application of Recycled Construction Materials in the Development of Energy-Efficient Infrastructure

Nazim Manic — 2026-06-28

The construction sector represents one of the largest consumers of natural resources and a significant source of construction waste, which is why modern infrastructure projects increasingly apply the principles of sustainable development. One of the key approaches to improving sustainability is the use of recycled construction materials.

This paper analyzes the role of recycled materials, such as recycled concrete, asphalt, steel, and glass, in the development of energy-efficient infrastructure. Special attention is given to their technical characteristics, application possibilities, and their impact on reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions throughout the life cycle of infrastructure facilities.

The paper also examines factors influencing energy efficiency, including material selection, design solutions, and modern construction technologies. In addition, examples of good practice are presented, and challenges in the application of recycled materials in infrastructure projects are identified.

The results indicate that the integration of recycled materials can significantly contribute to reducing the environmental footprint and improving the energy efficiency of modern infrastructure. Literature findings show that the use of recycled materials can reduce energy consumption in the production of construction materials by approximately 20–75%, depending on the type of material.

Traffic and civil engineering challenges in tunnel work zones

Aleksandra Obradovic — 2026-06-28

The paper examines the multifaceted challenges associated with executing construction works within tunnel environments, addressing both traffic engineering and civil engineering dimensions. The traffic engineering section provides an analysis of mandatory signage, proper placement of temporary traffic control devices, and measures aimed at enhancing the safety of construction personnel and road users. Particular attention is given to traffic management strategies under the spatially constrained conditions characteristic of tunnels, with the objective of mitigating the risk of accidents and minimizing traffic disruptions.The civil engineering section investigates the influence of construction activities on the structural behavior of tunnels, with emphasis on traffic-induced loading and the specific requirements of operating within enclosed, confined spaces. The analysis further considers the interaction between construction machinery and the tunnel structure, as well as the role of existing tunnel infrastructure in determining the overall efficiency of construction processes.The aim of the paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and corresponding solutions related to tunnel construction work zones, highlighting the importance of improving safety performance, optimizing traffic flow, and ensuring the protection and durability of structural infrastructure. The findings are intended to support the development of enhanced standards, guidelines, and operational procedures for work conducted in these highly specialized environments.

Testing the structural characteristics of KPG tank brackets under inertial forces using computer simulation

Miloš Ninković — 2026-06-28

With the aim of increasing the level of general road traffic safety, this paper deals with the structural validation of KPG tank brackets on commercial vehicles. Given that the transport of high-pressure gas presents a specific risk, the primary focus of the research was to ensure maximum reliability and integrity of the supporting structure in critical situations. By applying advanced numerical methods, simulations were conducted to analyze the behavior of the brackets under extreme loads defined by the UN ECE R110 regulation. The analysis provided precise insight into stress distribution and deformation, allowing for the identification of critical points within the system. In conclusion, it was proven that the modified bracket design fully meets strict safety criteria, thereby guaranteeing structural stability and the safe implementation of these systems in transport.