Fix: remove a duplicated point from a route shape

Published: 9 July 2026. Last reviewed: 9 July 2026.

Code: equal_shape_distance_same_coordinates (MobilityData validator)

What this means

Two consecutive rows in shapes.txt have the same latitude, longitude, and shape_dist_traveled. They describe the same point twice instead of moving forward along the route shape.

Why it matters

A single duplicate point rarely changes what a rider sees, but repeated points make the shape harder for trip planners and mapping tools to process. They also often reveal a geometry export or simplification setting that can create more serious distance-order problems elsewhere in the feed.

How to fix it

• Open the two row numbers and shape_id named by the validator.
• Remove one row if the latitude, longitude, and distance are identical.
• Renumber shape_pt_sequence so it still increases along the shape.
• Regenerate shape_dist_traveled if your export tool calculates it; do not hand-edit one distance without checking the rest of that shape.
• Run the validator again and confirm the route still follows the intended street or track alignment.

How long it usually takes

One isolated duplicate is a short data edit. Many duplicates usually call for changing the shape export or simplification setting and publishing a fresh feed.

Authoritative rule

equal_shape_distance_same_coordinates is a canonical MobilityData GTFS Validator notice used in validator reports across the GTFS ecosystem. Read the authoritative rule for equal_shape_distance_same_coordinates in the GTFS Validator rules. (opens on an external site)