Assessing the options for solving traffic increasing congestion (jam) problems in Malta by optimising public transport

Abstract

This project takes a look at the current traffic situation and the state of the public transport system in Malta. Research is conducted on smart public transport solutions that might help alleviate this problem, as well as solutions that can help collect data on public transport operations. Subsequently, simulation software Simul8 is used to recreate a Maltese bus route in simulation form, with the goal of collecting data from the simulation to aid in real-life decision making. Once the simulation is complete, multiple scenarios of the same route are also implemented, and the results obtained from these individual simulations is compared. This comparison process allows us to make informed decisions on public transport optimisation. The simulation process is a success and the results obtained resemble real-world predictions of those simulated scenarios. It is suggested that by using data collection technology, such as Intelligent Transport Systems, the simulations created can be more accurate and thus further aid in the decision making process of optimising the Maltese public transport system.