QTLC is leading the development and implementation of a Heavy Vehicle Congestion Management (HVCM) Application(s) (App) that uses real time traffic data to inform operators of congestion and network incidences to allow enable them to take mitigating action where possible.
With freight movement expected to grow by 71.6% over the next 10 years, and roads dominating as the preferred mode, there will be increasing pressure on the network resulting in greater congestion. Recent studies show the estimated cost of SEQ transport congestion in 2008 was $1.2 billion per year with a projected growth to $3 billion per year by 2020.
The HVCM Application will enable:
- transport operators to keep informed of congestion and network incidences that have the potential to cause delays and take mitigating action by suggesting an alternative route.
- transport operators to estimate time taken to move through the network which will enable them to better manage critical freight time requirements.
- transport operators to provide congestion and network updates to users within their fleet, providing commercial advantage.
Currently, operators travelling to QLD from other states must access multiple traffic information systems. The HVCM App will explore the incorporation of real time traffic data from NSW and Victoria to create cross-border integration and a streamlined system for operators.
The first HVCM Steering Committee meeting attended by QTLC, STRC, TMR was held on 5 December.