Enhancement of Parking Management System in Cairo Using Smart Phones

Abstract

Car parking is a central element in the urban traffic management system; finding a proper parking space is a big challenge for drivers in congested cities. Lack of parking spaces or the absence of information on available parking spaces leads to an increase in travel time, congestion, pollution, and also affect traffic safety. Therefore, solving this problem has a significant positive impact on both traffic performance and the economy. Being aware of when, where, and how many parking spaces are available is essential for travelers who make decisions about when and where to go. Accordingly, Parking Guidance and Information (PGI) systems are widely implemented around the world. This system provides dynamic information about the available parking spaces to the drivers within controlled areas. In such systems, data is commonly disseminated by Variable Message Signs (VMS) and/or through the internet, cellular phones. These systems significantly increase the probability of locating vacant parking spots, decrease frustration of those drivers unfamiliar with the city center, reduce queues in front of parking garages, decrease total vehicle-miles traveled, decrease average travel time, energy consumption, and air pollution. Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is considered as one of the largest cities in the Middle East and the world. According to the Egyptian Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS), the population of Cairo in 2019 was 9,876,923 inhabitants, who were nearly 10.5% of the total population of Egypt. Also, based on Bulletin of licensed vehicles statistics published by CAPMAS in 2018, about 1,768,389 private vehicles (37.5% of the total number of licensed private vehicles in Egypt) are running in Cairo roads (CAPMAS, 2018). Traffic congestion is a severe problem in Cairo with significant and adverse effects on both the quality of life and the economy. In addition to the time wasted standing still in traffic, congestion results in unnecessary fuel consumption, causes additional wear and tear on vehicles, increases harmful emissions lowering air quality, and makes Cairo an unattractive location for businesses and industry.