Trafikker

Trafikker is a term used in several Scandinavian languages to refer to the movement of people and goods across networks such as roads, railways, waterways and air routes. In transportation planning, the concept encompasses the systems, actors and regulations that shape how traffic flows in a region.

The core elements of trafikker include infrastructure (streets, tracks, terminals), vehicles and users (drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, sailors, pilots), control and signaling systems (traffic lights, timetable coordination, air- and rail-traffic control), and information platforms (real-time travel data, warnings, route guidance).

Trafikker can be categorized by modality: road trafikker, rail trafikker, maritime trafikker, air trafikker, and pedestrian and cyclist flows. Intermodal trafikker involves transfers between modes, such as park-and-ride facilities and airport rail links.

Management aims to optimize capacity, safety and reliability. Tools include infrastructure upgrades, traffic signal optimization, demand management, incident response, and travel information services. Safety programs address road design, enforcement, education and vehicle standards.

Environmental considerations are increasingly central, with policies targeting emissions, noise, and land-use impacts. Urban trafikker planning promotes public transport, cycling and walking, and manages demand near congested corridors through pricing or access restrictions.

Data and measurement are used to monitor trafikker performance. Metrics commonly tracked include traffic volume, speed, travel time, congestion level, and reliability. Data sources include sensors, cameras, GPS, and surveys, with open data initiatives enabling research and public information.