Evaluating level of service based on passenger behaviour parameters at an interchange by kanika

Abstract

A public transport interchange is one of the most important system in urban transport. An Interchange is defined as the node where different transport modes cumulate. On the onset of the 21st century, the travel behavior of the passengers changes a lot, as we saw massive migration from smaller urban regions to larger one as well as when urban cities merge together, the distance of travel increases, and thus cities need more efficient and optimal modes of travel to connect. The concept of transport interchange thus play a very decisive role in making these systems work in proficient manner, by reducing the travel time and distance. This thesis will endeavor through this system and its service levels impact based on the passengers behavior. Passengers behave differently based on the type of luggage they are carrying, their age, and gender. Passenger behavior is one of the most imperative component of this study. For evaluating behavior, level of service for passengers with different parameters were studied. Two sites were selected based on the availability of different modes and passenger footfall. Both the sites are in Delhi first is Sarai Kalen Khan in south Delhi and second one is Anand Vihar in East Delhi. A system of surveys were set and deployment schedule was created to record data for interchange system during peak hour for both the locations. The data is then further organized and analyzed based on passenger behavior at different travel modes and Interchange and Level of services are set up, which will help in evaluating the service levels on 7 parameters and 6 levels. These 7 parameters are Age, Gender, Luggage, speed, Density, Flow, and Space. A methodology is developed to unify the passenger behavior in one and termed as PEF (Passenger Equivalent Factor) which is then used in evaluating the Level of service. While levels are basically categorized in A, B, C, D, E, F; where A, B are overdesigned, C is optimally designed, D is Sub-Optimally designed and E, F are Under-designed. The Interchange pathway will then be tested on these and inferences will be carved out. The inference will guide us to understand the current state of interchange and the need to intervene and to optimize its operations. Apart from understanding Level of service a Benz model theory is also studied which relates the space and time. Space and time is one of the most important output of this study which actually gives us the need of space during peak and will also help in identifying whether the interchange system is operating on the optimize space. Thus two theories are used in a way to make double check on the optimal space requirement of the interchange. Walkability index is also evaluated and based on the inferences, the quality of the system walkable areas are identified. The proposals are based on the credible analysis and the inferences which are jotted from the above said study. These proposals will enhance the operational capability of the whole system at both the study sites. The main objective of this study to device a methodology which can be incorporated for the upcoming Greenfield interchange systems around the country and also in retrofitting already existing interchange system.