Resilient and economically sustainable public transport (REHKO)

Project name: Resilient and economically sustainable public transport (REHKO)
Project leader: Ingrid Johansson , Transport planning
Participating universities: KTH, Lunds Tekniska Högskola, Statens väg- och transportforskningsinstitut (VTI)
Project period: 2026-2028
Financing: K2

The project investigates how Sweden's public transport system, especially railways, can become more robust and resilient under economic constraints. It aims to (1) quantify and classify disruptions, (2) assess the resilience of alternative network structures, (3) measure and analyze the "maintenance debt" of the railway infrastructure and its causes, (4) evaluate alternative funding models for maintenance and renewals, and (5) develop strategies balancing resilience, capacity, and cost-efficiency under varying fiscal conditions.

Methodologically, we combine econometric analysis of extensive operational data (Lupp, Ofelia, BIS, Bessy, official statistics, etc.) with theoretical and applied modelling grounded in the 4R resilience framework (robustness, redundancy, rapidity, resourcefulness). Empirical results will be integrated with stakeholder workshops and policy synthesis to produce policy-relevant recommendations and strategies.

The expected outcomes include improved quantitative understanding of resilience trade-offs, new insights into funding mechanisms such as congestion charges and mark-ups to network access fees, and policy recommendations for a more resilient and financially sustainable public transport system. The project directly contributes to K2's "Improve" perspective by developing actionable knowledge to strengthen existing transport systems in an increasingly uncertain world.

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