NSW transport trials sensors to detect dangerous activity

Transport for NSW has begun a year-long trial using sensors and cameras at three sites to identify risks including unauthorised rail corridor crossings and basejumping. The agency said it could extend the technology to other locations after the trial.

Known as Project Guardian, the trial combines LiDAR and thermal cameras with wifi and bluetooth connectivity. It covers Kingswood Station in Penrith and two Hume Highway bridges south of Sydney, at Douglas Park and Pheasants Nest.

The agency said the equipment had detected 350 cases of people crossing Kingswood’s rail corridor, along with three instances involving kangaroos. On the Hume Highway, it recorded some 500 instances of dangerous pedestrian activity that the agency said would otherwise have escaped detection. Base jumpers were detected within 48 hours of the thermal cameras’ installation.

Transport coordinator general Howard Collins said identifying risky behaviour earlier could help the agency prevent harm and limit disruptions. He said the trial was showing where and when risks occurred, helping staff consider potential interventions.

Technology company 4Zero has claimed involvement in the project. It said the equipment and systems used came from Microsoft, Cisco, Converge Cloud and IPTEL.