| Abstract |
In this chapter, delve into the world of transportation systems that are based on geographic information systems (GIS), and investigate the essential role that GIS plays in analyzing, visualizing, and managing spatial data related to transportation infrastructure. In light of the rapid changes taking place throughout the world at the present time, the first section of this chapter provides an overview of the significance of effective transport systems. It draws attention to the difficulties associated with managing complex transportation networks and lays the groundwork for comprehending how GIS can be used to address these difficulties in an efficient manners and processes [1, 2]. After that, the chapter gives an in-depth explanation of GIS, placing particular emphasis on the system’s capacity to combine spatial and attribute data, thereby enabling the creation of visual representations and facilitating decision-making procedures. It investigates the various sources of GIS data, including government agencies, private organizations, research institutions, and platforms that rely on crowdsourcing for their information and scenarios. For the purpose of utilizing GIS in the analysis and planning of transportation, the availability and accessibility of these data sources are absolutely necessary for different use cases. The chapter then delves into the pivotal function that GIS plays in the transportation sector. This demonstrates how GIS has revolutionized transportation planning and management by giving professionals the ability to evaluate and optimize existing infrastructure, plan new routes, analyze traffic patterns, and forecast future demands. It is possible for policymakers, urban planners, and transportation authorities to make well-informed decisions with the help of GIS. These decisions can improve efficiency, cut down on congestion, raise safety standards, and encourage the development of sustainable transportation systems. The evaluation of highways and railroads by means of GIS constitutes a significant portion of this chapter’s content. It emphasizes the capability of GIS to conduct in-depth analyses of transportation infrastructure, such as road conditions, traffic flow, accident hotspots, and maintenance requirements. Geographic information systems make it easier to identify problem areas by integrating both realtime data and historical records. This opens the door for preventative maintenance and improvements that are specifically targeted. In addition, GIS plays an essential part in determining the effect that proposed road and railway developments will have on the entire transportation network. A case study on the application of GIS in smart cities is included in this chapter so that readers can gain some insight into its practical application. It investigates the possibility of integrating GIS with other smart city components, such as Internet of things devices, real-time data feeds, and intelligent transportation systems. The case study demonstrates how GIS contributes to the development of smart cities by providing the ability for transportation planning, traffic management, and sustainable urban mobility. This is accomplished through an analysis of real-world examples. In summing up, the focus of this chapter has been on the significant part that GIS plays in transportation systems. It places an emphasis on the significance of spatial data, investigates the various sources of GIS data, and demonstrates the numerous ways in which GIS can be utilized in transportation analysis and planning. Transportation professionals can improve the efficacy, safety, and sustainability of transportation networks by making use of GIS. This chapter serves as a foundation for further exploration and implementation of GIS-based transport systems. It paves the way for smarter, more connected cities as well as improved transport experiences for individuals as well as communities alike for a variety of different scenarios. © 2024 Scrivener Publishing LLC. |
