Crowd Management at Turnstiles in Metro Stations: A Pilot Study Based on Observation and Microsimulation

Crowd management at turnstiles in metro stations is a critical task for ensuring safety, efficiency, and comfort for passengers. A methodology based on observation and microsimulation provides an advanced understanding and optimization of crowd flow through these turnstiles. The aim is to optimize crowd management and prevent overcrowding and delays at metro turnstiles through innovative solutions. The methodology is based on simulating passenger movements through turnstiles to observe and optimize crowd behavior. The results show that passenger decisions (e.g., choosing which turnstile to use, adjusting pace) are based on perceived crowd density, level of service, and usage of space. For instance, the number of turnstiles, their location, and the layout are important variables to be considered in the decision-making sequence. These decisions can be influenced by parameters like turnstile availability, walking paths, and real-time data (e.g., density of passengers). The methodology can help metro operators decide where to place additional turnstiles or adjust operational schedules. By simulating crowd behavior, operators can make informed decisions to reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of turnstile usage. This methodology could be implemented in various metro systems to optimize operations during different crowd conditions and peak times, ensuring smooth, safe, and efficient passenger flow.