Measuring the vulnerability of public transport networks

•This paper analyses the vulnerability and criticality of a public transport network.•We calculate the impact of each link in the network on travel times using a full scan approach implemented in GIS.•We analyse the role of circular lines regarding network vulnerability.•The more critical scenarios are identified in a sequence of link disruptions, simulating a targeted attack.•The case study used is the subway network in the city of Madrid.

In the last years, studies on the vulnerability of public transport networks attract a growing attention because of the repercussions that incidents can have on the day-to-day functioning of a city. The aim of this paper is to develop a methodology for measuring public transport network vulnerability taking the Madrid Metro system as an example. The consequences of a disruptions of riding times or the number of missed trips are analysed for each of the network links with a full scan approach implemented in GIS (Geographic Information Systems). Using real trips distribution, each link in the network is measured for criticality, from which the vulnerability of lines and stations can be calculated. The proposed methodology also makes it possible to analyse the role of circular lines in network vulnerability and to obtain a worst-case scenario for the successive disruption of links by simulating a targeted attack on the network. Results show the presence of critical links in the southern part of the network, where line density is low and ridership high. They also highlight the importance of the circular line as an element of network robustness.