Mathematical Optimization for the Train Timetabling Problem

AMS Subj. Classification: 90C57; 90C10;

Rail transportation is very rich in terms of problems that can be modelled and solved using mathematical optimization techniques. The train scheduling problem as the most important part of a rail operating policy has a very significant impact on a rail company profit considering the fact that from the quality of a train timetable depends a flow of three most important resources on rail network: cars, locomotives and crews. The train timetabling problem aims at determining a periodic timetable for a set of trains that does not violate track capacities and satisfies some operational constraints. In this paper, we developed an integer programming approach for determining an optimal train schedule for a single, one-way track linking two major stations, with a number of intermediate stations between. The application has been tested on a realistic example suggested by the PE “Serbian Railways”. Obtained results show a potential for a practical application of proposed approach.