Metro Trains is using award-winning laser technology at Richmond and Parliament Stations to manage crowd safety during major Melbourne events.
The People Movement Analytics initiative uses Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology sensors at stations to capture passenger density on platforms and monitors crowd sizes to provide real time feedback to station staff. It cannot be used to identify individuals.
Staff can access the data through a tablet, and the information helps with platform crowd management and alerts staff of any trespassers jumping into the station pit and onto the tracks.
General Manager Performance Planning and Reporting Michael Jewell said an extensive trial period convinced his team of the LiDAR technology’s benefits.
“We know it has already helped Stations and Authorised Officer teams during busy special events when the platforms become very crowded,” Jewell said.
“We have worked so hard over the past two years on this initiative, and it is fantastic to see it in use at two of our busiest stations.”
When Melbourne’s major events are held – including the Australian Open, AFL and sell-out stadium concerts – Richmond is one of the busiest outdoor stations on the network, while Melbourne Central is one of the busiest indoor stations.
Metro recently won two international awards for the People Movement Analytics initiative at the MTR Work Improvement Team (WIT) Awards.
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