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Research Article
Rethinking Automobile Dependency in Sub-Saharan Africa: Toward Sustainable Urban Planning in Cameroon
Chianebeng Japhet Kuma
,
Samba Gideon,
Nyiniwou Ismaila Kinyui
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
47-63
Received:
3 April 2025
Accepted:
18 April 2025
Published:
19 May 2025
Abstract: Rapid urbanization and increased motorization are prevalent in Sub-Saharan African cities, where automobiles have become the primary mode of transportation. This reliance has resulted in significant challenges, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and limited access to public spaces. In response, there is an urgent need to reevaluate the role of automobiles in the sustainable urban planning of cities in the Global South. This paper (i) identifies the causes of automobile dependency in selected cities in Cameroon, (ii) examines the impact of automobile usage on the urban environment, and (iii) proposes solutions to reduce automobile dependency. Through 380 surveys and 15 in-depth interviews, the researchers gathered data from residents in four Cameroon cities: Yaoundé, Douala, Bamenda, and Bafoussam, and engaged city stakeholders, including mayors, transport syndicate leaders, and traffic officers to gain insights and perspectives crucial for effective urban transportation solutions. The findings highlight the necessity of reimagining transportation policies and infrastructure in Cameroonian cities to foster more livable, resilient, and inclusive urban environments. By challenging the perception of automobiles as symbols of progress, this research advocates for a holistic urban planning approach that prioritizes the needs of the community and the urban environment in Cameroon.
Abstract: Rapid urbanization and increased motorization are prevalent in Sub-Saharan African cities, where automobiles have become the primary mode of transportation. This reliance has resulted in significant challenges, including traffic congestion, air pollution, and limited access to public spaces. In response, there is an urgent need to reevaluate the ro...
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Research Article
Durability Performance of Onna Expansive Subgrade Soil Stabilized with Rice Husk Ash Geopolymer for Road Pavement Construction
Kufreabasi Ndarake Usanga*,
Aniekan Effiom Edet
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
64-74
Received:
23 February 2025
Accepted:
22 April 2025
Published:
4 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijtet.20251102.12
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Abstract: The use of expansive soils as subgrades in road pavement construction poses significant challenges due to their high swell-shrink potential, leading to structural damage resulting to increased maintenance costs. This study investigates the durability performance of Onna Expansive Soil (OES) stabilized with rice husk ash (RHA)-based geopolymer, an eco-friendly alternative for enhancing soil properties. Geopolymer mixtures with varying RHA contents (10%, 20%, and 30% by dry weight) were prepared and subjected to cyclic wetting-drying conditions to simulate natural climatic changes. Key parameters, including California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), were evaluated after 7 and 28 days of curing. The results reveal that mixtures with 10% RHA content showed significant weight loss, disintegrating by the 7th cycle, whereas 20% RHA stabilized samples survived up to intermediate cycles. The mixture containing 30% RHA exhibited optimal performance, retaining over 90% of its mass after 12 cycles, with a CBR value of 14.97% at 7 days and a residual UCS of 714 kN/m² after 28 days. These findings indicate that a higher RHA-geopolymer content significantly improves the long-term durability and strength of OES, making it a viable option for sustainable road construction. This study contributes to addressing both the disposal issues of agricultural waste and the enhancement of problematic soils, offering a pathway to cost-effective and durable road infrastructure in regions with similar soil conditions.
Abstract: The use of expansive soils as subgrades in road pavement construction poses significant challenges due to their high swell-shrink potential, leading to structural damage resulting to increased maintenance costs. This study investigates the durability performance of Onna Expansive Soil (OES) stabilized with rice husk ash (RHA)-based geopolymer, an e...
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Review Article
From Wheels to Girders: A Comprehensive Review of Braking and Traction Force Effects on Railway Bridge Structural Behavior, Modelling Advances, and Future Directions
Girmay Mengesha Azanaw*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
75-84
Received:
10 May 2025
Accepted:
29 May 2025
Published:
23 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijtet.20251102.13
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Abstract: As train speeds, axle loads, and structural designs have advanced, so too have the intricate issues posed by the dynamic interaction between railway vehicles and bridge structures, particularly under braking and traction pressures. In order to comprehend and lessen the consequences of longitudinal stresses on railway bridges, this paper explores the historical underpinnings, contemporary modelling techniques, experimental strategies, and upcoming technological integrations. The foundation for today's reliable analytical and numerical models was established by early empirical research. Recent developments in hybrid modelling, machine learning, and real-time data assimilation have greatly improved predictive capacities, even if classic finite element models continue to be fundamental. In order to close the gap between theoretical predictions and actual behaviour, full-scale monitoring and experimental validation have proven essential in bridging the gap between theoretical assumptions and real-world behavior In the future, rail bridge inspection and maintenance will be transformed by the confluence of digital twins, artificial intelligence, and sensor-rich cyber-physical systems. Predictive technologies have the potential to save lifespan costs, enhance safety and dependability, inform design principles, and promote resilience against escalating demands and climate unpredictability. Future studies must embrace an interdisciplinary and comprehensive framework that integrates computer science, transportation engineering, structural mechanics, and sustainability concepts in order to effectively use these advancements.
Abstract: As train speeds, axle loads, and structural designs have advanced, so too have the intricate issues posed by the dynamic interaction between railway vehicles and bridge structures, particularly under braking and traction pressures. In order to comprehend and lessen the consequences of longitudinal stresses on railway bridges, this paper explores th...
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Research Article
Application of Haddon Matrix Model for Traffic Injury Prevention in Cameroon Cities: Using Samples from Bamenda City
Japhet Kuma Chianebeng*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
85-97
Received:
14 November 2024
Accepted:
10 June 2025
Published:
25 June 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijtet.20251102.14
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Abstract: Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) represent a significant public health issue in developing countries. Of recent, cities in Cameroon have shown consistent upward trends in road traffic accidents and fatal injuries, resulting in the deaths of road users. There is a nuanced understanding of the countermeasures in place to halve road injuries cases in the country, despite implementation of the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety target 2030 in Cameroon since 2016. This paper aims to (i) assess crash injury situation in Bamenda from 2015 to 2023, (i) evaluate pre-event factors of crashes/injuries among hosts (taxi drivers, motorcycle riders and private vehicle owners) and, (iii) identify sustainable strategies to reduce road crashes/injuries in the city. The study made used of 156 survey participants, made up of motorcycle riders, taxi drivers, and pedestrians, to gather their views on crash/injury cases in Bamenda city. The Regional Delegation of Transport (RDT) and its Department of Road Safety (DRS) provided relevant records on injury cases, which were crucial for analyzing their patterns and developing potential strategies for mitigating these incidents. The Haddon model introduced a conceptual framework that helped identify hosts, agents, and physical/social environmental risk factors for crash/injury cases that needed prevention. Key findings indicate that traffic injuries have significantly increased in the city, mainly due to factors such as speeding, overloading, overtaking, reckless driving, traffic congestion, poor road quality, and the absence of road/traffic signals. The findings derived from the Haddon matrix demonstrated its effectiveness in training emerging researchers in Cameroon to engage in conceptual analysis regarding the incidence of automobile crashes in urban areas and to develop innovative strategies for implementing preventive countermeasures.
Abstract: Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) represent a significant public health issue in developing countries. Of recent, cities in Cameroon have shown consistent upward trends in road traffic accidents and fatal injuries, resulting in the deaths of road users. There is a nuanced understanding of the countermeasures in place to halve road injuries cases in the ...
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