Testing Intelligent Traffic Control Solutions efficiency in reducing traffic and pollution in Tirana*

Urban traffic congestion is an issue that metropolitan regions face throughout the world. It has a substantial negative influence on the levels of pollution in the environment and lowers the standard of living in urban areas. This study examines the efficacy of three different traffic control methods in the urban environment of Tirana, Albania: conventional static, actuated, and delay-based. The study assesses how effective they are in controlling traffic flow and reducing emissions by using simulation approaches. Using the Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO) tool, the investigation compares the performance of these systems, focusing on key indicators such as time spent in traffic, fuel consumption, and emission levels. Contrary to initial assumptions, the simulations reveal the actuated system as the most efficient, showcasing its superior adaptability to real-time traffic conditions at multiple consecutive intersections. This adaptability optimizes traffic flow and contributes to a reduction in environmental impact. This discovery emphasizes the significance of implementing dynamic traffic management solutions tailored to the specific dynamics of urban environments. Based on these findings, the study advocates for the adoption of actuated traffic management systems in cities struggling with similar traffic challenges, highlighting their potential to bolster urban mobility and sustainability. The research also advocates for further exploration into the scalability of these systems and their integration into broader smart city frameworks. By contributing to the ongoing discourse on urban traffic management, this study provides valuable insights that can inform policy-making and the deployment of intelligent traffic solutions.