Transport for NSW launches Project Guardian safety trial

Transport for NSW has initiated a year-long trial named ‘Project Guardian’ to deploy real-time detection and sensing technology at three specific locations. The initiative utilizes LiDAR, thermal imaging cameras, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to identify risky behaviors and prevent network disruptions.

The trial is currently active at Kingswood Station in Penrith, as well as the Douglas Park and Pheasants Nest bridges on the Hume Highway south of Sydney. Early results from the technology include the detection of 350 instances of individuals crossing the rail corridor at Kingswood and three instances of kangaroos entering the corridor.

On the Hume Highway, the system has identified approximately 500 instances of dangerous pedestrian activity that previously went undetected, including basejumping incidents occurring within 48 hours of the thermal imaging cameras being installed. Coordinator General Howard Collins stated that the trial aims to provide a clearer picture of where and how risks occur to allow for earlier interventions.