Simulation of Train Scheduling and Evaluation of Passenger Level of Service : A Case Study of Mass Rapid Transit Blue Line

A Case Study of Mass Rapid Transit Blue Line

Abstract

This research studies the train scheduling of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) blue line, which is one the major lines in Bangkok with a total distance of about 48 kilometers and 38 stations. The blue line is the first of the MRT system and connects major business, residential and cultural areas of Bangkok. Presently, the blue line is connected to other lines including purple line, red line, green line and airport rail link line with a plan to extend to orange line, yellow line and purple line in the future. This has led the blue line to become one of the Bangkok’s busiest line with an average of 400,000 passengers per day passing through. The aim of this study is to improve efficiency of train scheduling and thus provide a better level of service for passengers. This research considers significant factors influencing train operation such as train specifications, train speed, train capacity, route of train line, distance between the station, headway and dwell time. This paper adopts cloud-based transit scheduling software called “TRUELINE” to create varieties of run curve and timetable considering different factors in order to improve efficiency and passenger level of service. The outcome of this study will provide information for train operators that can be applied to optimize operations in real life.