A Comprehensive Review of Transportation Network Design and Congestion Modeling: Methods, Challenges, and Emerging Trends

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Volume: 12 | Issue: 1 | Year 2026 |
International Journal of Transportation Engineering and Traffic System
Received Date: 04/01/2026
Acceptance Date: 04/02/2026
Published On: 2026-04-06
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By: Himanshu Bharti, Manisha Dhapola, and Sanjeev Suman.

Department of Civil Engineering, College of Technology, GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, Distt. Udham Singh Nagar (Uttarakhand), India.

Abstract

Abstract

As urbanization and travel demand continue to grow rapidly, traffic congestion has emerged as a widespread issue worldwide. The design of transportation networks and the modeling of congestion are essential disciplines that provide foundational tools for analyzing, predicting, and mitigating congestion impacts. This review complies key theories, modeling frameworks, optimization techniques, and algorithms used in network design and congestion modeling. We discuss static and dynamic models, equilibrium concepts, congestion pricing policies, and integrated bi-level optimization frameworks. Recent advances involving stochastic methods, multi-modal integration, and emerging technologies such as connected and autonomous vehicles are highlighted. The paper concludes by identifying future research pathways aimed towards developing resilient, efficient, and equitable transportation systems. The review also addresses challenges related to data availability, model scalability, uncertainty handling, and computational efficiency. Finally, the paper concludes by identifying future research directions aimed at developing resilient, efficient, and equitable transportation systems capable of adapting to evolving mobility patterns and supporting sustainable urban development.

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How to cite this article: Himanshu Bharti, Manisha Dhapola, and Sanjeev Suman A Comprehensive Review of Transportation Network Design and Congestion Modeling: Methods, Challenges, and Emerging Trends. International Journal of Transportation Engineering and Traffic System. 2026; 12(1): -p.

How to cite this URL: Himanshu Bharti, Manisha Dhapola, and Sanjeev Suman, A Comprehensive Review of Transportation Network Design and Congestion Modeling: Methods, Challenges, and Emerging Trends. International Journal of Transportation Engineering and Traffic System. 2026; 12(1): -p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/uncategorized/article=24807

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