Abstract
In train timetabling, robustness usually refers to the timetable’s ability to withstand disturbances and recover from delays. However, railway systems are also subject to disruptions, major unplanned events, such as train breakdowns, that significantly impact train operations and cause substantial deviations from the planned timetable. Even tough disruptions are less frequent than disturbances, they often require significant rescheduling efforts, including train rerouting and cancellations, and major changes to the timetable. These changes often involve the closure of tracks or platforms and temporary reductions in network capacity, increasing the likelihood of delays propagating through the network. In this work, we present a case study analysis of a Norwegian railway line and investigate how the concept of timetable fragility may be exploited to ensure reliable train service in case of disruptions, and reduce the negative effects of disruptions on the timetable. Specifically, we analyze how a reduction in station capacity, such as that occurring during planned maintenance, may affect the timetable’s ability to both absorb delays and recover from disruptions. This analysis certainly provides valuable information to understand the impact of maintenance activities on timetable performance and to help design more robust schedules that can better withstand disruptions.