Analysis of Operational Performance Levels of Urban Road Sections in Ambon City

Abstract

Urban road congestion in Ambon City is influenced by high traffic demand and intensive roadside activities, particularly along commercial corridors, which reduce effective road capacity and disrupt traffic flow. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the operational performance of selected urban road sections in Ambon City and identify critical corridors requiring priority traffic-management interventions. Methodology: An analytical–numerical approach based on the Indonesian Road Capacity Manual (MKJI 1997) was applied. Primary data were collected through field observations and traffic-volume counts at seven observation points along Jl. Slamet Riyadi, Jl. Tulukabessy, Jl. Rijali, Jl. Kakialy, and Jl. Diponegoro. Traffic flow (Q), road capacity (C), and degree of saturation (DS) were analyzed to determine operational performance. Findings: Jl. Slamet Riyadi (DS = 1.30), Jl. Tulukabessy (DS = 1.68), and Jl. Kakialy (DS = 1.09) operate at Level F, indicating forced-flow conditions where traffic demand exceeds practical capacity. In contrast, the three observation points on Jl. Rijali recorded DS values of 0.14–0.69, while Jl. Diponegoro recorded a DS of 0.61, indicating free-to-stable traffic conditions. Implications: Traffic-management interventions should prioritize Jl. Tulukabessy, Jl. Slamet Riyadi, and Jl. Kakialy through parking control, reduction of roadside friction, regulation of roadside access, and feasible geometric improvements. These findings can support local authorities in prioritizing traffic-management and infrastructure programs. Originality: This study integrates empirical traffic flow, capacity, and saturation measurements with localized traffic-conflict conditions across strategic urban corridors, extending MKJI 1997 from conventional capacity analysis into a practical framework for identifying and prioritizing critical urban road interventions.