Rising Car Ownership and Traffic Congestion in the University of Cape Coast Campus

Abstract

The study sought to examine the effects of rising car ownership on traffic congestion in the University of Cape Coast. The study used a quantitative and descriptive design of which convenience sampling was used to select 250 respondents (senior members, workers (TEWU), students (private car owners), commercial taxi drivers, shuttle drivers as well as minibus drivers). Questionnaire and structured interviews were the main data collection instruments used. The data was then analysed with the help of Statistical Product for Service Solution using percentages and frequencies and presented by using tables and charts using Excel 2020 version. However, the responses from the interviews were transcribed verbatim and discussed thematically based on the objectives of the study. It was found out that rising car ownership on campus influences road traffic congestion on campus. Also, road traffic congestion waste people’s time, delay movements, increase local temperature, increase expenses on fuel, low productivity and road accidents. Moreover, private cars and taxis were the type of cars used by majority of the respondents. It was also found that rise in car ownership, especially private cars, taxis, minibuses and shuttle buses were the major cause of road traffic congestion on campus. It is, therefore, recommended that the transport section of the University should provide enough spaces on campus for car stopping and parking. Lastly, the transport section of the University should educate the car users on campus on the essence of traffic regulators and others.