Automatic passenger counting systems, also known as people counters, are invaluable tools for rail operators. Between peak passenger flows, infrastructure constraints and safety requirements, stations must function as truly dynamic systems. These systems incorporate advanced technologies to effectively monitor and manage passenger flows in stations.
Safety is a major concern in stations, but also on board vehicles. We highlighted the importance of safety in a previous article, which you can find by clicking on the link.
Better understand real-time flows & improve capacity
People counters are capable of continuously measuring the number of passengers present in a station, on a platform or in waiting areas. Unlike estimates based on ticket sales, this data reflects the reality on the ground, minute by minute. This visibility allows operators to quickly identify areas under pressure, anticipate congestion and adapt operations accordingly. By detecting flows in stations, they can reduce risks and improve the passenger experience.
During peak hours when demand is higher, people counters help anticipate overcrowding issues. Operators can take swift measures, such as deploying additional trains or managing passenger flows, to avoid congestion.
Anticipating congestion and improving passenger flow
During busy periods, having reliable passenger flow indicators allows operators to take action before the situation deteriorates.
The goal ? To improve the management of peak passenger flows.
But also : to redirect flows, open alternative areas and adjust passenger information.
This enables them to make quick and informed decisions based on real-time data rather than intuition. For example, users can access this information directly on the app or from display boards.
The result: less congestion, smoother journeys and an improved passenger experience, while ensuring their safety.
At ACOREL, we are implementing a solution to monitor footfall and assess safety in stations. For more information or a demo, please contact us directly.
A direct impact on safety in stations
Controlling footfall in stations is inextricably linked to safety. An overcrowded area automatically increases the risks:
- Falls
- Crowd movements
- Difficulties in responding to incidents
Footfall counters are used to keep occupancy levels under control. In particular, they are used to trigger corrective action as soon as a critical threshold is reached.
In exceptional circumstances, this data also provides a clear picture of the number of people present. This is an excellent way of facilitating coordination with security teams and emergency services in the event of high risk.
Operational optimisation and resource allocation
Beyond safety, the data collected by the gauges can be used to optimise the overall organisation of the station (hall, platforms, waiting areas) :
- Staffpositioning
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Equipment management
This makes operations more efficient, with better cost control and improved service quality.
Case study : managing passenger flows in busy stations
For example, in some SNCF stations, automatic counting solutions are used to monitor passenger numbers on platforms and in concourses. These are highly recommended during peak hours or when traffic is disrupted for any reason.
When critical thresholds are reached, teams can immediately adapt operations:
- Redirecting passengers
- Increasing human presence
- Broadcasting information in real time
This proactive management of passenger flows in stations helps to limit congestion, improve safety and ensure smoother travel, even in challenging circumstances.
By relying on reliable data rather than estimates, operators can make quick and targeted decisions, improve the passenger experience and optimise station organisation.
For more information, click here.