Hierarchical Clustering Analysis and Classification of MRT Stations: A Case Study of the MRT Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line

Abstract

The MRT Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line is the main mass transit system that surrounds the inner city of Bangkok. It is the major circular line that serves as a connector among various radial train lines that enter the Bangkok CBD as well as major railway hubs including Hua Lamphong Station and Bang Sue Grand Station. Therefore, it is one of the most crowded transit lines both during the peak and off-peak periods to serve the travel between various origin-destination pairs and travel objectives. It is expected that this mass transit system is going to be an essential line serving the urban traffic. This research is aimed at presenting the grouping and classification of the MRT Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line stations by hierarchical clustering analysis method. The dependent variable is the number of passengers entering and leaving the station during the morning rush hour at each station. The independent variables are influencing factors including the land-use data around the stations from geographic information system, water users classified by type within the walking distance precinct around the station, the number of bus lines and stops around the stations. The results of analysis demonstrates that the MRT Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line stations can be clustered into major groups according to its surrounding neighborhood such as residential, work or business areas, and intermodal hubs. The multiple regression analysis is performed to determine the relationship between influencing factors and the number of passengers entering and leaving the station during the rush hours. This research is expected to be useful for development planning of the areas surrounding mass transit stations.