The effect of optimisation objectives on the outcome of line planning

Abstract

One of the core problems in the strategic planning of railway operations revolves around developing an optimal line plan. The line plan optimisation problem aims to build a workable line system that achieves specific objectives. Many models presented in existing literature typically focus on either maximising direct traveller numbers or minimising costs. In contrast, this paper introduces a model with diverse objectives for addressing line plan optimisation problems, allowing for variations in stopping patterns across different lines. Our model examines how setting different objectives can result in different line plan designs. This will be valuable for railway operators, offering diverse perspectives when selecting the most suitable design, particularly in the context of new railway service development, such as the introduction of a high-speed train. A case study of future semi high-speed rail in Indonesia is presented to test the model.