A method to find the optimum routes and stations for bus rapid transit in urban areas

Public transportation (PT) is an essential system for cities to achieve sustainability. However, determination of proper locations for PT stations and finding suitable routes are critical decisions. The aim of the present study is to propose a novel method to determine bus rapid transit (BRT) stations and routes in cities, using a fuzzy inference system (FIS) and binary integer programming (BIP). In the proposed method, first, a set of potential locations for BRT stations is selected based on engineering judgement. Then, by considering several variables and with the help of FIS, a weight is calculated for each location. Subsequently, the optimum corridors for BRT are identified with BIP. The objective function of the BIP model is to maximise the sum of the stations' weights (involving the most suitable locations for BRT stations), while ensuring that the maximum number of passengers can travel each route. Constraints related to technical, social and economic considerations are also taken into account. To control the model efficiency, the outputs are compared with the stations and corridor suggested by experts. Based on the results, the most important features of the developed model are its simplicity, its ability to consider various factors, a short running time and its high level of accuracy.