Optimal bus holding control on bus routes traversing a common corridor

Abstract

Extensive research has focused on bus holding strategies to mitigate bus bunching in single-line systems. However, for common-line corridors served by multiple bus lines, it remains challenging to balance joint service efficiency with individual line regularity. This study proposes an optimisation framework for heterogeneous bus holding control, enabling variable bus holding control strengths at different control points to address diverse passenger demand patterns in common-line systems. The problem is formulated as a stochastic optimisation model, with a generalised cost function incorporating in-vehicle travel time, waiting time, and service irregularity costs. Numerical experiments indicate that the proposed strategy significantly improves performance in common-line scenarios. Compared to no control or homogeneous control strategies, the heterogeneous approach better balances travel efficiency and service regularity, achieving superior system performance with a modest increase in passenger in-vehicle travel time.