الفهرس 
Optimizing Metro Operations through Improve Timetables
Conclusions and Further StudiesOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
The Greater Cairo Underground Metro (GCUM) provides a vital role in navigating Cairo’s ever-expanding urban landscape. However, its growing ridership strains its efficiency, leading to congestion and inefficiencies. This thesis delves into optimizing GCUM operations to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for millions of daily passengers.
The research began by examining existing literature on metro system optimization. Passenger flow data for the GCUM’s 1st and 2nd lines from 2016 to 2023 was meticulously analyzed. This data, obtained from ticket gates machines, provided valuable insights into passenger movement patterns. Mathematical models were then developed to further analyze these patterns and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, a deep dive into passenger traffic during the first week of March 2021 provided crucial real-time information on passenger fluctuations.
A key finding of the research is the impact of fare structure on ridership. While increasing ticket prices led to a decrease in ridership at most stations, high-traffic stations like Al-Shohadaa bucked this trend. This suggests a need for a more nuanced approach to fares. The thesis proposes a tiered fare system, where smaller fare increases are implemented for shorter distances. Conversely, stations in commercial areas, which experience consistently high passenger volumes, could see slightly higher fare increases. This tiered structure ensures a fairer pricing model that reflects the distance traveled while acknowledging the added value and demand associated with commercial zones.
Another critical area for optimization identified in the thesis is Headway, which refers to the time interval between train arrivals. Currently, the headway doesn’t effectively match passenger fluctuations. To address this, the research recommends adjusting the headway on Line 1 during peak hours to three minutes. This would allow for more frequent trains during peak times, reducing passenger wait times and congestion on platforms. Additionally, the thesis proposes the concept of express trains that skip low-traffic stations. This strategy would further enhance efficiency by focusing on stations with the highest passenger demand.
Finally, the research sheds light on inefficiencies in station design. An inventory of existing ticket windows and gates revealed discrepancies between supply and demand at various stations. The thesis recommends increasing the number of ticket windows and gates at stations experiencing high passenger volumes. This would streamline the ticketing process, reduce queues, and improve the overall passenger experience.
By implementing these data-driven recommendations, GCUM can significantly enhance its operations. A tiered fare structure promoting fairness, adjusted headway for better passenger flow, and optimized station design with sufficient ticketing infrastructure all contribute to a more efficient and user-friendly metro system. This, in turn, would benefit millions of daily commuters in Cairo, reducing their travel time and frustration while ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey.