Exploring the Effect of Crowd Management Measures on Passengers’ Behaviour at Metro Stations

Abstract

To reduce problems of interaction at the platform train interface (PTI) platform edge doors (PEDs) and markings on the platform are used as door positions indicators. The common methods to study the effect of these measures are based on average values of density using Fruin’s Level of Service (LOS), however identification cannot be made of which part of the PTI is more congested. To solve this problem, a new method is proposed. The method included a conceptual model in which the PTI was discretised into 40 cm square cells to identify which part of the platform is more congested. Passengers’ behaviour was recorded considering two situations before the train arrives: i) passengers waiting in front of the doors; ii) passengers waiting beside the doors. Observation was done at existing stations at Metro de Santiago and London Underground. Results show that PEDs changed the behaviour of passengers as they were located beside the doors rather than in front of them. In addition, when markings were used on the platform, then this behaviour was reinforced. Therefore, it is recommended to use this method to better design the PTI rather than the LOS which is used to design the whole platform. Further research is needed to study the effect of PEDs on passengers with reduced mobility