Chennai Transfer Friction Index — Thesis Maps
A thesis-driven spatial analysis of transfer friction across Chennai's multimodal transit network — mapping interchange points, quantifying Transfer Friction Index (TFI) scores, and identifying hotspots of poor connectivity.
Interactive map — scroll and click to explore.
Context
Chennai's public transit network integrates suburban rail, MRT, MRTS, and bus services at interchange nodes. Transfer quality at these nodes is poorly measured and rarely visualized, despite being a key determinant of overall network performance and ridership.
Problem Statement
How can transfer friction — the combined cost of walking, waiting, and navigating between modes — be quantified and mapped across Chennai's multimodal transit network? Which interchange nodes have the highest TFI scores, and where should improvement efforts be concentrated?
Methodology
Transfer Friction Index (TFI) computed from weighted components: pedestrian transfer distance, level changes, signage quality, waiting environment, and modal connectivity. Interchange nodes classified and ranked by TFI score. Spatial hotspot detection applied to identify priority intervention zones.
Analysis
Three interactive maps produced: Study Area map showing the multimodal network extent and zone classifications, TFI Hotspot map showing friction scores and ranked interchange nodes, and the composite Chennai Transfer Friction map with full legend and analysis overlay. Built with Leaflet.js.
Insights
High-TFI hotspots cluster at outer rail-bus interchange nodes where infrastructure investment has lagged. Central interchanges (Chennai Central, Egmore) show lower friction due to recent upgrades. The TFI distribution is spatially unequal, with peripheral communities facing the highest transfer penalties.
Outcome
Three production-quality interactive maps (Study Area, TFI Hotspots, Composite Thesis Map) with ranked interchange analysis, spatial hotspot detection, and an evidence base for targeted interchange improvement investments.