Transportation

Traffic Control
Pelco Monitors Shanghai’s Mingzhu Elevated Rail Line
by Zhou Bing, Crockett International, Asia Pacific, pelco@crockettint.com

As China’s first urban-area elevated rail transportation system, the Mingzhu Elevated Rail Line in Shanghai has proven to be an efficient and convenient mass transportation tool since it began its trial run on December 27, 2000. With 19 stations along the 25- kilometer route, the need for a video security solution was great and Pelco was chosen to help protect one of the major means of public transportation in Shanghai.

The monitoring and management system on the Mingzhu Line consists of two subsystems: train operations and public security. Shanghai International Technology and Trade Associates, Ltd., an affiliate of the No. 3 Research Institute under the Ministry of Public Security of China, was responsible for the implementation of the monitoring and management system. The company specializes in the engineering, design and installation of security systems. According to Mr. He Wei, manager of the system, his company was awarded the contract by successfully demonstrating the technical advantages of the Pelco product line as well as Pelco’s commitment to customer service and support.

Video security on the Mingzhu Line is implemented through the use of 19 powerful CM6700 matrix switchers – one at each of the stations along the line – and more than 100 logically dispersed dome cameras. The matrix switchers, supported by easy-to-use KBD300 keyboards, fully meet the station’s monitoring requirements. And the cameras – installed over station hallways and platforms – monitor train operations, passenger flows at entrances and exits, and any emergency situations to ensure safety for trains and passengers alike.

Technical engineers at The Shanghai Subway Corporation, responsible for the daily maintenance of the monitoring and management system, have confirmed that the Pelco products in use have demonstrated their functionality, reliability, and ease of use. They particularly appreciate the after-sale services provided by Pelco, especially its prompt support capability for solving any and all emergency issues that arise.

Thanks to their successful application on the Mingzhu Line, Pelco products have increasingly gained popularity in rail transportation applications. Pelco’s video security products will be used to monitor Shanghai Subway Route 2 as well as the northern extension segment of the Mingzhu Line.

The head office for the Mingzhu Line construction project and the Shanghai Subway Corporation have expressed great satisfaction with the quality and service of the monitoring and management system and look forward to continued work with Pelco products.