Measuring robustness in uncertain topologies: a study of on-demand bus networks

Ensuring the robustness of bus networks is essential for delivering reliable and efficient mobility services to passengers. This paper addresses the challenge of assessing the robustness of on-demand bus networks, which are characterised by uncertain topology. We propose a framework based on a random multilayer bus network, from which we develop four topological metrics to quantify network robustness. Additionally, we conduct network attack simulations to derive simulation-based robustness indicators, which are acknowledged as golden rules in robustness measurements. Correlation analysis between the proposed metrics reveals a positive relationship between the topological properties and network robustness, validating the effectiveness of the topological metrics in assessing the robustness of networks with uncertain topology. This study fills a gap in the existing literature by providing a robustness analysis framework specifically tailored to on-demand bus networks, contributing to the design of more resilient on-demand bus systems.