Helicopters and drones fitted with thermal imaging cameras have been flying over Melbourne’s rail network in an effort to improve safety and security during large events.
The helicopters and drones will deliver real-time information and intelligence to the train control centre where Metro Trains works alongside police to improve responses to serious network disruptions and incidents.
Victoria’s transport minister Jacinta Allan on Monday joined representatives from Victoria Police, PTV and Metro Trains Melbourne to give an update about joint security arrangements on the public transport network.
“The use of drones is another tool to better respond to disruptions and catch the criminals who seek to deface our network,” Allan said.
“This is all about making sure our passengers can get to and from Melbourne’s major events quickly and safely.”
In using this information Metro Trains makes assessments about the kind of response that is required to an incident, and confirm when tracks are clear to get trains moving and passengers on their way.
The information is also used as a tool to detect trespassing on the network – as well as incidents of graffiti and criminal damage to rail equipment which all cause disruptions to services.
Intelligence sourced from the cameras is provided to Victoria Police to support on-going investigations.