Evaluating the value of new metro lines using route diversity measures: The case of Hong Kong's Mass Transit Railway system

The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) serves as the backbone of Hong Kong public transportation network and continues to be expanded in phases. Nevertheless, occasional but severe disruptions have raised concerns about whether proposed MTR expansions will benefit system resilience. To assess value each stage expansion, it is key identify distributive effects new metro lines on both accessibility This paper applies route diversity index, a relatively indicator, evaluate their spatial distribution, variation, changes at nodal, dyadic, levels. results indicate that resilience differ between expansion. On front, benefits reduced travel times increased successively extended more districts with equity also improved gradually by especially isolated regions such northern western New Territories. In contrast, although overall vulnerability reduced, certain parts increased, which might necessitate additional resources protect these stations. However, some reduce this provide complementary solution enhance Overall, insights from study could assist cost-effective resource allocation informed decision-making for prioritization future railway investments allocation.