A novel approach of differential evolution (DE) by incorporating the Pareto-optimal set is presented for optimising train movement through tuning fuzzy membership functions in mass transit systems. The Pareto-optimal based multiobjective optimisation approach uniquely provides a set of optimal non-dominated solutions to the decision-maker. From the set, the decision-maker selects satisfactory solutions according to different running conditions to meet the various requirements. A fuzzy controller for automatic train operation is optimised to demonstrate the effectiveness of this new approach.