A Network Analysis for HSR Services in the South of Italy

Abstract

AbstractRailway transport represents a travel alternative coherent with the European and international long-term sustainability perspectives. Different European countries are planning and developing the realization of High-Speed Rail (HSR) lines along the main Trans-European Network corridor. For instance, Italy is developing the design of the HSR line Salerno – Reggio Calabria to extend the current network towards the south of Italy. In this context, this paper presents a framework for performing a network analysis. Network analysis allows the evaluation of the centrality and connectivity of a network. Methods and specifications for calculating a set of indicators (degree centrality, strength centrality, eigenvector centrality) are proposed. The framework highlights the inputs, parameters and outputs needed for calculating the proposed indicators. A first pilot application of the framework regards the current railway services offered in the south of Italy. The resulting framework and relative methodology can be useful in a transportation planning process aimed at showing the current main gaps in terms of transport connectivity in the south of Italy. The framework and the results obtained from the pilot application can support decision-makers and takers involved in the railway transportation planning process aimed at increasing accessibility and sustainability goals for people's mobility in the region where HSR lines are developing.