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Congestion mitigation method for scenic area roads based on bidirectional pedestrian flow optimization and control

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  • Zhang, Yuanyuan
  • Li, Liang
  • Han, Yanbin
  • Niu, Sijie
  • Dong, Zihao
  • Hou, Qingtao

Abstract

Pedestrian counterflow is one of the main causes of congestion in scenic areas, usually resulting from the improper allocation of bidirectional pedestrian flow on roads. To solve this problem, we propose a bidirectional pedestrian flow optimization strategy aimed at mitigating pedestrian counterflow, increasing pedestrian touring efficiency, and enhancing scenic area utilization. First, two assessment indicators, modified pedestrian traffic efficiency (MPTE) and spatial distribution dispersion (SDD), are introduced to assess road conditions. Then, a pedestrian flow optimization method is presented to adjust the number and direction of pedestrians by optimizing the bidirectional traffic ratios on the road. Finally, we build a pedestrian tour simulation model based on the reciprocal velocity obstacle (RVO) to validate our method. The experimental results indicate that the average tour time of tourists is shortened by 33.70 %, and the road balance is increased by 44.79 %, which provides some suggestions for tourist management in scenic areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhang, Yuanyuan & Li, Liang & Han, Yanbin & Niu, Sijie & Dong, Zihao & Hou, Qingtao, 2026. "Congestion mitigation method for scenic area roads based on bidirectional pedestrian flow optimization and control," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 681(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:681:y:2026:i:c:s0378437125007071
    DOI: 10.1016/j.physa.2025.131055
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    References listed on IDEAS

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