Introduction to Transportation Engineering: An Overview
Transportation engineering is a branch of civil engineering that is concerned with the safe, efficient, and sustainable movement of people and goods from one place to another. It involves the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of various transportation systems, including roads, railways, airports, ports, and public transit networks.
The importance of transportation engineering cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in economic development, social integration, and overall quality of life. An efficient transportation system allows people to access employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and other essential services. It also enables the movement of goods, which is essential for trade and commerce.
The book Transportation Engineering: An Introduction by C. Jotin Khisty and B. Kent Lall provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and principles of transportation engineering. The authors are highly regarded experts in the field, with decades of experience in research, education, and practice.
The book is divided into three parts, covering the fundamentals of transportation systems, transportation planning, and transportation design. The first part introduces readers to the basic concepts, including the history and evolution of transportation systems, the different modes of transportation, and the factors that affect travel demand.
The second part focuses on transportation planning, which involves evaluating the current and future transportation needs of a region and developing strategies to meet those needs. It covers topics such as traffic flow theory, travel demand forecasting, and transportation economics.
The final part delves into transportation design, which involves translating the planning strategies into physical infrastructure. This section covers the design of roadways, intersections, and other elements of transportation systems, as well as the principles of geometric design and traffic safety.
One of the notable features of this book is its emphasis on the integration of sustainability principles into transportation engineering. The authors highlight the importance of sustainable practices in managing transportation systems, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting public transportation, and incorporating green infrastructure.
In conclusion, Transportation Engineering: An Introduction is an excellent resource for students, academics, and professionals in the field of transportation engineering. Its comprehensive coverage of key topics, practical examples, and integration of sustainability principles make it an essential read for anyone interested in this rapidly evolving and critical field.
