Quote:
Originally Posted by deasine
I don't understand the concept of loops either, especially if they are interlined, which is a total nightmare for transportation operators. If one thing goes wrong, the entire thing will be down.
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For a ring line, the passenger can take it to transfer between 2 lines that goes from downtown to the suburbs without having to transfer at downtown, thus saving time in traveling (although this cannot really apply to Vancouver's case). Another benefit is that, if one part of the ring breaks down, the line can quickly become an arc line, so the train can turn around to avoid the problem area completely and without affecting the frequency of service in the other parts. If the ring is interlined, then if one part break down, the train from the other line(s) will still have another path to go to their destination. This will ensure that other path will have enough capacity to carry the extra people, as well as still maintaining a somewhat even headway throughout the line (assuming the detour is not too long). It would be much easier if the system is automated too because they can just reverse direction in and out of a station if needed. Just imagine if Commerical is to connect with Broadway, if Metrotown breaks down, only some of the expo trains will be stop and go in the Broadway-Columbia area, while the other can quickly revert or change route and go to Surrey via Lougheed.