An interactive web-based public transport enquiry system with real-time optimal route computation

A comprehensive and presentable public transport information system is deemed invaluable for local residents and tourists all over the world. This is particularly necessary in view of the complex city structure and transportation system in Hong Kong. There are more than ten public transportation modes available, all with different operation schedules, fare structures, and routing characteristics. To assist commuters in making better use of public transport, the system needs to be not only user friendly and informative but intelligent enough to provide optimal route choices in terms of users' travelling behavior or preference as well. The web-map public transport enquiry system, as described in this paper, gives a good example of providing bilingual (English and Chinese) information on all public transports run in Hong Kong in the form of interactive maps and texts, as well as real-time derivation of optimal travelling routes for users in terms of multiple criteria, i.e., preferred mode, least changes, shortest travelling time, or lowest fare.