For your Civil Engineering 7th level PSC Loksewa exam, a structured and technical
presentation is key to scoring high marks. Below is the exam-ready version of the content from
your notes, organized for maximum clarity and scannability.
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Factors Affecting Selection of Highway Alignment
The selection among various suitable alignments is conducted based on several critical factors to
ensure the route is short, easy, safe, and economical.
A. Obligatory Points
These are specific locations that govern the path of the highway alignment. They are categorized
into two types:
1. Points through which the alignment should pass:
o Bridge Sites: Locations where the river crossing is narrow and stable.
o Mountain Passes: Natural gaps in ridges to avoid steep gradients.
o Intermediate Towns: To provide accessibility to populated areas.
o Places of Strategic Importance: Locations vital for national security or
industrial growth.
2. Points through which the alignment should NOT pass:
o Water Bodies: Ponds and lakes.
o Low-lying Areas: Prone to flooding or waterlogging.
o Costly Settlement Areas: To minimize land acquisition costs and social
displacement.
o Unsuitable Lands: Marshes or geologically unstable terrain.
B. Traffic Factors
Alignment should be based on traffic lines drawn using Origin-Destination (OD)
Surveys.
The path should satisfy the specific requirements of the projected traffic volume and
composition.
C. Geometric Design
The alignment must allow for standard geometric features to ensure safety and comfort. These
include:
Appropriate gradients (Ruling, Limiting, and Exceptional).
Minimum curve radii for horizontal and vertical curves.
Adequate friction coefficients and sight distances (SSD, OSD).
D. Economy
The chosen alignment must minimize the overall life-cycle cost:
Construction Cost: Achieved through techniques like balanced cut and fill and reduced
earthwork.
Vehicle Operation Cost: Shorter and flatter routes reduce fuel and maintenance for
users.
Maintenance Cost: Avoiding unstable zones reduces recurring repair expenses.
E. Other Factors
Drainage: Proper planning to divert surface and sub-surface water.
Hydrology: Considering High Flood Levels (HFL) and catchment areas.
Social and Economical Factors: Impact on local communities and regional development
Factors Affecting Highway Planning
1. Physical characteristics (Topography of country)
– Terrain, soil, rivers, and climate control alignment, gradients, and construction cost.
2. Budgetary analysis / Capacity
– Availability of funds determines road class, standards, and phased development.
3. Safety of passengers (during use and maintenance)
– Proper geometry, drainage, signage, and maintenance reduce accidents and risks.
4. Environmental quality / Preservation
– Planning minimizes pollution, deforestation, landslides, and ecological damage.
5. Social equilibrium
– Ensures balanced regional development and accessibility to all communities.
6. Historic and scenic characteristics
– Protects heritage sites and preserves natural scenic beauty.
7. Multimodal characteristics
– Integration with railways, airports, and waterways for efficient transport.
simple flow chart for Highway Alignment Selection:
Map Study
↓
Reconnaissance Survey
↓
Preliminary Survey
↓
Comparison & Selection of Best Alignment
↓
Detailed Survey
↓
Final Alignment for Design & Construction
Question: Describe the hierarchical process of
alignment selection in road or railway project surveys.
Answer:
The selection of an optimal alignment for linear infrastructure projects like
roads or railways is a critical, multi-stage process. It follows a systematic
hierarchical approach to progressively narrow down options from a broad
region to a specific final line. This ensures technical feasibility, economic
efficiency, and minimal environmental and social impact.
The key steps in this hierarchical process are as follows:
1. Selection of Region: The process begins at the macro level by
identifying the broad region connecting the terminal points (origin and
destination). This involves a study of topographical maps, satellite
imagery, and geographical constraints to understand the overall
landscape.
2. Identification of Corridor Bands: Within the selected region,
potential bands or corridors of approximately 8 to 16 kilometers in
width are identified. This stage involves a comparative analysis of
different broad paths, considering major natural barriers (like mountains,
large rivers) and regional development plans.
3. Definition of Corridors: From the broad bands, more
specific corridors of about 3 to 10 kilometers in width are
shortlisted. This stage involves a more detailed analysis using
engineering judgment, preliminary terrain evaluation, and key economic
centers to be connected.
4. Route Tracing: Within each corridor, specific route alignments or
"route trips" of a narrow width (1 to 1.5 kilometers) are plotted on
large-scale maps. This involves a closer examination of gradients,
geology, and crossings of minor obstacles.
5. Final Alignment Selection: This is the most detailed stage of ground
survey and investigation.
o From the shortlisted route trips, typically four to five promising
alternative alignments (lanes/paths) are chosen for detailed
engineering survey.
o Each of these final alternatives is studied as a narrow strip,
approximately 20 to 30 meters wide, on the ground.
o A detailed comparative analysis is conducted based on:
Detailed soil investigation and geology.
Precise earthwork calculations.
Cost-benefit analysis.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Social and rehabilitation considerations.
6. Final Decision: Based on the comprehensive data from the final stage,
the single most suitable alignment is selected for detailed design
and construction.
In summary, the alignment selection process is a funnel-shaped,
hierarchical method that progresses from a macro perspective (Region →
Bands → Corridors) to a micro perspective (Route Trips → Final
Alignments). Each stage employs increasingly detailed engineering
judgment and analysis to refine and narrow the choices, ensuring the
selection of the most economical, safe, and environmentally sound
alignment for the project.
Asian Highway in Nepal
The Asian Highway in Nepal is a part of the Asian Highway Network (AHN), an international road
system developed under UNESCAP to connect Asian countries through standardized highways.
In Nepal, it mainly follows the East–West Highway (Mahendra Highway) and is designated as Asian
Highway Route AH2.
1. Why is the Asian Highway in Nepal? (Purpose / Need)
Regional Connectivity: The Asian Highway is part of a major trans-continental road
network connecting Asia and Europe to improve transport and connectivity across the
region. Project Khabar
Trade Facilitation: It aims to reduce transportation costs, boost international trade,
and provide better access from Nepal to markets in India, Bangladesh and beyond.
Nepal Views+1
Economic Growth: With improved road standards, Nepal’s imports and exports
become cheaper and more efficient, helping rural and national economic development.
Nepal Views
Integration into Regional Economy: By linking Nepal with the broader Asian
Highway Network, it enhances tourism, logistics, and foreign investment opportunities.
Project Khabar
2. Where is it in Nepal? (Route / Location)
The Asian Highway in Nepal largely follows the East–West Highway (Mahendra
Highway) route. RedVoiceNepal
Key Section Under Upgrade:
o From Kakarbhitta (Jhapa) in the east to Laukahi (Sunsari) in the Terai region
is being upgraded to Asian Highway standards (AH2). Nepal Views
International Link:
o Nepal connects with the larger Asian Highway network through the border at
Kakarbhitta, linking to India and further to Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and
beyond towards Pakistan. Nepal Views
National Length
Route Stretch in Nepal
Correspondence (Approx.)
Kakarbhitta — Pathlaiya —
Mahendra Highway
AH2 Narayanghat — Kohalpur — Banbasa 1,027 km
(H01)
(Mahendranagar)
Kodari (China Border) — Kathmandu
Araniko/Tribhuvan
AH42 — Mugling — Narayanghat — 297 km
Hwy
Pathlaiya — Birgunj
Note: AH2 and AH42 overlap between Narayanghat and Pathlaiya. 106KM
Although Nepal is designated under two Asian Highway routes (AH2 and AH42), actual construction
work is currently limited to the AH2 corridor, mainly the Kakarbhitta–Laukahi section of the East–West
Highway. AH42 remains at the planning and proposal stage.
Asian Highway Routes in Nepal:
o AH2 → Runs along the East–West Highway (Mahendra Highway) in the
Terai.
o AH42 → Proposed route connecting Nepal–India–China, but largely conceptual
/ planned.
Current Work Status:
o Active construction/upgradation:
✔ AH2 (Kakarbhitta–Laukahi section)
→ Being upgraded to Asian Highway standards (lane widening, pavement, safety
features).
o AH42:
✖ No major construction yet; only planning, proposal, and policy-level
inclusion.
1. Elimination of Crown of Cambered Section
Before attaining full superelevation, the camber of the normal road section is removed.
(a) Rotation of outer half about the crown
The outer half of the pavement is rotated upward about the crown.
The inner half remains unchanged.
Finally, both halves lie on the same plane.
(b) Shifting the position of crown (Diagonal crown method)
The crown is progressively shifted towards the outer edge.
The width of the inner half increases gradually until the camber is fully eliminated.
2. Rotation of Pavement Cross-Section to Attain Full Superelevation
After camber elimination, full superelevation is achieved by rotating the pavement using one of
the following methods:
(a) Rotation about centre line
Inner edge is depressed and outer edge is raised by E/2 each.
Centre line profile remains unchanged.
Provides balanced earthwork but may cause drainage issues.
(b) Rotation about inner edge
Inner edge remains fixed.
Centre line and outer edge are raised; outer edge by full E.
Preferred in flat terrain and high rainfall areas (better drainage).
(c) Rotation about outer edge
Outer edge remains fixed.
Centre line and inner edge are depressed; inner edge by full E.
Rarely used due to drainage and construction difficulties.
Conclusion:
Superelevation is provided gradually by eliminating camber and then rotating the pavement, with
rotation about centre line or inner edge being most commonly adopted depending on terrain and
drainage conditions.
In route surveying (horizontal curves), tangents are the straight lines joining two successive
points of intersection (PI) of traverse lines.
For a simple circular curve, the length of tangent (T) is computed as:
T=Rtan(Δ2)\boxed{T = R \tan\left(\frac{\Delta}{2}\right)}T=Rtan(2Δ)
where:
RRR = radius of the circular curve
Δ\DeltaΔ = intersection (deflection) angle between the two straight traverse lines
👉 This is the standard and most commonly asked formula in surveying objective exams (PSC,
diploma, engineering).
Highway Curves: Tangents
1. Definition
In highway alignment, tangents are the straight portions of the road connecting two successive
points of intersection (PI) of straight traverse lines.
Horizontal curves are introduced between two tangents to provide a smooth change in direction.
2. Purpose of Tangents
To provide straight alignment between curves
To ensure easy surveying, setting out, and construction
To improve driver comfort and visibility
To connect successive curves smoothly along a route
3. Tangents in Horizontal Curves
For a simple circular curve, tangents meet at the Point of Intersection (PI) and touch the curve
at:
Point of Curvature (PC) – beginning of curve
Point of Tangency (PT) – end of curve
The length of tangent from PI to PC (or PT) is called tangent length.
4. Length of Tangent
For a simple circular curve:
T=Rtan(Δ2)T = R \tan\left(\frac{\Delta}{2}\right)T=Rtan(2Δ)
where:
TTT = length of tangent
RRR = radius of the curve
Δ\DeltaΔ = angle of intersection of tangents
5. Advantages of Proper Tangent Length
Smooth transition between straight and curved sections
Adequate sight distance
Better riding comfort
Reduced chances of accidents
6. Important Exam Points (PSC Focus)
Tangents are straight lines, not curved
They are measured from PI to PC / PT
Curves are always provided between two tangents
Tangent length depends on radius and intersection angle
3.6.2 Horizontal Curves (Highway Engineering)
Definition
Horizontal curves are provided in highway alignment to change the direction of travel at the
intersection of two straight alignments in the horizontal plane.
The change in direction should be gradual to ensure safety and comfort of passengers.
Necessity of Horizontal Curves
The provision of horizontal curves becomes necessary due to the following reasons:
1. Topography of the country
– To suit hilly, mountainous, or uneven terrain.
2. Providing access to a particular locality
– To connect towns, villages, or important places.
3. Restrictions due to unavoidable land conditions
– Limited land availability, private property, forests, etc.
4. Preservation of existing amenities
– To protect parks, water bodies, public utilities, etc.
5. Avoidance of religious, monumental, or important structures
– Temples, monuments, heritage sites, and other sensitive structures.
6. Making use of existing right-of-way
– To utilize already available road corridors efficiently.
7. Minimizing the quantity of earthwork
– To reduce cutting and filling, thereby lowering construction cost.
Importance of Horizontal Curves
Enhance comfort of passengers
Reduce mental strain caused by long monotonous straight roads
Improve driver alertness
Play an important role in speed control
Increase safety by avoiding sudden directional changes
3.6.5 Extra Widening (Highway Engineering)
Definition
Extra widening is the additional width of carriageway provided on horizontal curves over
and above the width required on a straight road.
Extra widening is necessary due to:
1. Mechanical reasons (vehicle movement on curves)
2. Psychological reasons (driver behavior on curves)
Reasons for Providing Extra Widening on Horizontal
Curves
(a) Mechanical Reasons (Off-tracking)
While negotiating a horizontal curve, the rear wheels do not follow the same path as
the front wheels.
The rear wheels trace a path of smaller radius, occupying more road width.
This phenomenon is called off-tracking.
Larger vehicles and trailer units require more extra width.
At speeds higher than design speed, transverse skidding may occur, demanding
additional width for safety.
(b) Psychological Reasons (Driver Behaviour)
Drivers tend to keep away from the edge of the carriageway while driving on curves.
Drivers prefer the outer edge of the pavement for:
o Better visibility
o A path of larger radius
Extra clearance is required during crossing and overtaking on curves.
This tendency increases with speed and traffic volume.
Factors Affecting Amount of Extra Widening
The amount of extra widening depends on:
Length of wheel base of vehicle (l)
Radius of curve (R)
Number of lanes (n)
Speed of vehicles
Psychological factor
Components of Extra Widening
Extra widening is divided into:
1. Mechanical widening (Wₘ)
2. Psychological widening (Wₚₛy)
We=Wm+Wpsy\boxed{W_e = W_m + W_{psy}}We=Wm+Wpsy
[Link] Mechanical Widening
Explanation
Due to off-tracking, the rear wheels occupy extra space.
To maintain the same clearance between vehicles on curves as on straight roads,
additional width is required.
Formula (for large radius curves):
Wm=nl22R\boxed{W_m = \frac{n l^2}{2R}}Wm=2Rnl2
where:
WmW_mWm = mechanical widening (m)
nnn = number of lanes
lll = wheel base of vehicle (m)
RRR = radius of curve (m)
[Link] Psychological Widening
Explanation
Provided due to driver’s tendency to avoid edges and need for more clearance on
curves.
IRC empirical formula:
Wpsy=V2.64R\boxed{W_{psy} = \frac{V}{2.64\sqrt{R}}}Wpsy=2.64RV
(when VVV is in m/s)
or
Wpsy=V9.5R\boxed{W_{psy} = \frac{V}{9.5\sqrt{R}}}Wpsy=9.5RV
(when VVV is in km/h)
Total Extra Widening
We=nl22R+V9.5R\boxed{W_e = \frac{n l^2}{2R} + \frac{V}{9.5\sqrt{R}}}We=2Rnl2+9.5RV
Provision as per NRRS 2055 (2nd Revision 2071)
For single-lane, low traffic volume roads, only mechanical widening is required.
Minimum Recommended Extra Widening
Curve Radius (m) Up to 20 21–60 Above 60
Increase for 3.0 m carriageway (m) 1.5 0.6 Nil
Increase for 3.75 m carriageway (m) 0.9 0.6 Nil
Extra Widening as per Nepal Road Standard (NRS) 2070
Extra Widening (m)
Radius (m) 20 20–40 40–60 60–100 100–300 >300
Single lane 0.9 0.6 0.6 Nil Nil Nil
Double lane 1.5 1.5 1.2 0.9 0.6 Nil
Multi-lane (n lanes) 0.75n 0.75n 0.6n 0.45n 0.3n Nil
Very Important PSC One-Line Answers
Extra widening is the additional width provided on horizontal curves to accommodate
vehicle off-tracking and driver behavior.
Off-tracking is the phenomenon where rear wheels follow a path of smaller radius than
front wheels.
Extra widening consists of mechanical and psychological widening.
[Link] Methods of Providing Extra-Widening
General Principle
The designed amount of extra widening on a horizontal curve is introduced gradually, not
suddenly, to ensure safety and riding comfort.
Provision with Transition Curve
Extra widening starts from the beginning of the transition curve (TS).
It is increased uniformly along the transition curve.
The full value of widening is attained at the end of the transition curve (SC).
The full widening is maintained throughout the circular curve.
Widening is then gradually reduced along the exit transition curve until the normal
carriageway width is restored.
Distribution of Extra Widening
1. For ordinary roads (60 m < R < 300 m):
o Extra widening is equally distributed on both sides of the centre line.
o Centre line marking is placed midway between the widened carriageway edges.
2. When equal distribution is not suitable:
o Extra widening may be provided fully on the inside of the curve.
3. For mountainous roads (R = 20–30 m):
o Extra widening should be provided fully on the outer side of the curve.
o This improves visibility and vehicle maneuverability, especially for heavy
vehicles.
When Transition Curve Cannot Be Provided
Two-thirds (2/3) of the total widening is provided at the end of the straight section.
The remaining one-third (1/3) widening is provided on the circular curve.
In such cases, widening is generally provided on the inside of the curve.
Transition Curve (Highway Engineering)
Definition
A transition curve is a curve provided between a straight (tangent) and a circular curve to
change the horizontal alignment gradually.
Its radius decreases progressively from infinity at the tangent point to the required radius of
the circular curve at the curve point.
A transition curve is also known as an easement curve.
Need for Transition Curve
When a vehicle enters a circular curve directly from a straight road:
Centrifugal force develops suddenly
Causes discomfort to passengers
Produces jerk and difficulty in steering
Reduces safety
Hence, a transition curve is provided to ensure smooth and safe change in alignment.
Objectives of Providing Transition Curve
1. Gradual introduction of centrifugal force
o Avoids sudden jerk
o Increases passenger comfort
2. Gradual steering control
o Enables the driver to turn the steering wheel smoothly
o Improves safety and driving comfort
3. Gradual introduction of superelevation
o Prevents sudden tilting of vehicles
4. Gradual introduction of extra widening
o Ensures adequate road width on curves
5. Improves aesthetic appearance of the road
o Provides smooth and pleasing alignment
Ideal Shape of Transition Curve
The ideal transition curve should be such that the rate of change of centrifugal
acceleration is uniform.
This ensures:
o Smooth vehicle motion
o Better steering control
o Maximum riding comfort
[Link] Types of Transition Curve
The commonly used transition curves in highway horizontal alignment are:
1. Spiral or Clothoid
2. Cubic Parabola
3. Bernoulli’s Lemniscate
(a) Spiral or Clothoid
Definition
A spiral (clothoid) is a transition curve in which the radius of curvature is inversely
proportional to the length of the curve measured from the tangent point.
ρ∝1S\boxed{\rho \propto \frac{1}{S}}ρ∝S1
or
ρ S=C\boxed{\rho \, S = C}ρS=C
where:
ρ\rhoρ = radius of curvature at any point
SSS = length of spiral measured from the tangent point
CCC = spiral constant
At the end of spiral:
ρ=Rc,S=L\rho = R_c,\quad S = Lρ=Rc,S=L ∴Rc L=C\therefore \boxed{R_c \, L = C}∴RcL=C
Reasons for Using Spiral as Transition Curve
Rate of change of centrifugal acceleration is uniform
Radius varies from infinity at tangent point to R at circular curve
Smooth steering control
Simple design and field setting
Most suitable and widely used transition curve in highways
(b) Bernoulli’s Lemniscate
Definition
Bernoulli’s lemniscate is a transition curve in which the radius of curvature is inversely
proportional to the length of chord.
Properties
Provides uniform rate of change of centrifugal acceleration
Radius is infinite at the straight end and decreases gradually to R at the curve point
Easy to compute and set out in the field
(c) Cubic Parabola
Definition
A cubic parabola is a transition curve in which the radius of curvature varies inversely as the
abscissa (x) measured from the tangent point.
ρ∝1x\boxed{\rho \propto \frac{1}{x}}ρ∝x1
or
ρ x=C\boxed{\rho \, x = C}ρx=C
At the end of the curve:
ρ=Rc,x=X\rho = R_c,\quad x = Xρ=Rc,x=X ∴Rc X=C\therefore \boxed{R_c \, X = C}∴RcX=C
Characteristics
Simple mathematical form
Easy for construction work
Less accurate than spiral in maintaining uniform centrifugal acceleration
Comparison (Very Useful for PSC)
Curve Type Relation
Spiral / Clothoid ρS=C\rho S = CρS=C
Lemniscate ρ∝1chord length\rho \propto \frac{1}{\text{chord length}}ρ∝chord length1
Cubic Parabola ρx=C\rho x = Cρx=C
Important PSC Exam Points
Spiral (clothoid) is most commonly used
Transition curve radius always changes from ∞ to R
Uniform centrifugal acceleration is key requirement
Spiral constant C is same throughout the curve
Design and Construction Problems of Hill Roads
Hill roads present several difficulties due to complex terrain and adverse natural conditions. The
major design and construction problems are:
1. Rugged Topography
Highly broken relief with large differences in elevation
Steep slopes and deep gorges
Numerous watercourses
👉 These conditions often increase road length and construction difficulty.
2. Geological Problems
Geological conditions vary widely from place to place
Presence of weak, fractured and weathered rock
Slopes may become unstable after road construction, leading to landslides
3. Hydrological Problems
Great variation in hydrological conditions
High rainfall intensity in hill regions
High speed of surface runoff, causing erosion and slope failure
4. Slope Stability Issues
Cutting and filling disturb natural slope equilibrium
Heavy filling may overload weak underlying soil layers
This may trigger landslides and slips
5. Climatic Conditions
Large variation in climatic conditions
Fog, snow, heavy rainfall and frost action
Adversely affects construction and maintenance
6. Drainage and Road Structures
Need for construction of:
o retaining walls
o breast walls
o culverts and causeways
Installation of various road structures increases cost and complexity
7. Construction Difficulties
Frequent blasting required in rocky terrain
Limited working space
Transportation of materials is difficult
8. Alignment Problems
Relatively short approach stretches
Need for hairpin bends to negotiate steep gradients and gain height
9. Safety Issues
Steep drop-offs and sharp curves
Need for special safety measures such as:
o parapets
o guardrails
o warning signs
INTERSECTION
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Traffic Projection and Forecasting
1. Introduction
Traffic projection and forecasting is the process of estimating future traffic volume on a
road or transport facility based on past and present traffic data, considering growth factors
such as population, economy, vehicle ownership, and land use.
It is an essential part of traffic engineering and highway planning.
2. Need / Importance of Traffic Forecasting
Traffic forecasting is required for:
Planning new roads, bridges, and highways
Geometric design (lane width, number of lanes, intersections)
Capacity analysis
Economic analysis and cost–benefit studies
Planning maintenance, widening, and upgrading
Traffic management and safety measures
3. Factors Affecting Traffic Growth
Major factors influencing traffic projection:
Population growth
Economic development
Increase in vehicle ownership
Industrial and urban development
Land-use pattern
Road network development
Fuel price and transport policy
4. Methods of Traffic Projection / Forecasting
Traffic forecasting methods are broadly classified into:
A. Trend Projection Methods
(Based on historical traffic data)
1. Arithmetic Increase Method
Assumes constant annual increase in traffic.
Simple but suitable only for short-term forecasting.
Formula:
Tn=T0+n×iT_n = T_0 + n \times iTn=T0+n×i
Where:
TnT_nTn = traffic after n years
T0T_0T0 = present traffic
iii = average annual increase
2. Geometric Increase Method
Assumes traffic increases at a constant percentage rate.
Most commonly used in highway projects.
Formula:
Tn=T0(1+r)nT_n = T_0 (1+r)^nTn=T0(1+r)n
Where:
rrr = annual growth rate
3. Incremental Increase Method
Combination of arithmetic and geometric methods.
Accounts for increase in growth rate over time.
B. Analytical Methods
1. Regression Analysis Method
Establishes mathematical relationship between traffic and variables like:
o population
o vehicle ownership
o income
More accurate for long-term forecasting.
2. Econometric Models
Based on economic indicators (GDP, income, fuel price).
Used for national and regional transport planning.
C. Traffic Model Based Methods
(Used in urban transport planning)
Four-Step Travel Demand Model:
1. Trip generation
2. Trip distribution
3. Modal split
4. Traffic assignment
(Usually mentioned briefly in PSC answers)
5. Selection of Forecasting Method
Depends on:
Availability of past traffic data
Length of forecast period
Purpose of project
Accuracy required
Type of road (rural / urban)
6. Traffic Projection Period (Design Life)
Typical projection periods:
Rural roads: 15–20 years
Urban roads: 20–30 years
Major highways & expressways: 30 years
7. Conclusion
Traffic projection and forecasting is a vital tool in traffic engineering, ensuring that road
facilities are economical, safe, and adequate throughout their design life. Selection of a proper
forecasting method leads to efficient planning and sustainable transport development.