Join Metro Trains experts at our AusRAIL Plus stand to learn more about our LiDAR People Movement Analytics initiative, from 2.00pm to 2.30pm each day of the conference (26-28 November).

Our People Movement Analytics Project is enhancing safety across our rail network using cutting-edge LiDAR technology. By monitoring crowd density and detecting track trespassers in real time, we’re helping station staff respond quickly and keep passengers safe.

Following a successful proof of concept at Melbourne Central Station, LiDAR was shown to accurately measure crowd density and identify trespassers in a live rail environment. This success led to an expanded operational trial at two key locations:

• Parliament Station – Platform 4
  Serving the busy Burnley group lines, this platform experiences significant congestion during the afternoon peak.
• Richmond Station – Platforms 9 and 10
  These platforms handle high volumes of passengers during peak hours and major events at the MCG.

Key use cases

The trial focused on two critical safety applications:

1. Crowd density monitoring
   Helping staff manage platform safety and passenger flow.
2. Trespasser detection
   Enabling rapid response to incidents on or near the tracks.

Real-time response tools

To support live decision-making, a human–machine interface (HMI) was developed for use on iPads:

• Station control desk
  Station Controllers receive live alerts for crowding or trespass events. They can verify incidents via CCTV, contact the Network Control Centre to stop trains if needed, and make announcements to keep passengers informed.
• Platform staff
  Staff use iPads to monitor crowding across six platform zones, helping them guide passengers to less congested areas.
• Authorised Officers during events
  Officers carry iPads to manage platform entry during major events. They can implement block and hold controls when capacity is reached and resume movement once space becomes available.

Impact and results

Since February 2025, the system has:

• Detected 37 trespasser events, mostly involving passengers retrieving dropped items. In some cases, trains were stopped to prevent harm.
• Identified 32 instances of passengers standing too close to the platform edge, often resolved through public announcements.

By giving staff better visibility, especially after large events like AFL games at the MCG, the system has reduced the need for block and hold controls, improving the overall flow of passengers entering and boarding trains.