Causes and Effects of Traffic Jam in Muscat City, Sultanate of Oman

Generally, traffic jam is considered a major challenge to most countries. This is relatively true in the case of the growing traffic problem in Muscat City, Sultanate of Oman. This study primarily aimed at determining the common causes of traffic jam in Muscat City. It also investigates the effects of traffic congestion to individuals, businesses and the environment as well as finding possible solutions to the problem. This study employed the focus group discussion as the main gathering tool to ten (10) respondents with the use of both semi-structured and open-ended questions to solicit responses. Findings revealed that traffic jam were caused by the use of mobile while driving causing accidents on the road, using the roads by motorists at the same time, reckless driving, too much roundabouts, lack of alternative routes, lack of discipline by drivers, growing constructions anywhere, and lack of education by young motorists. Recommendations dictate that, the government should try to address the following considerations construction of more flyovers, adaption of public transports, elimination of roundabouts, provision of alternative routes, educating young drivers on road safety and allow carpooling as alternative solution to reduce the magnitude of cars running on the roads. Furthermore, it is also recommended that a follow-up quantitative research study shall be undertaken to investigate and validate further these findings.