How do conductors manage passenger boarding and alighting?

Conductors play a crucial role in managing passenger boarding and alighting by directing passengers and ensuring safety protocols. This involves guiding them in an orderly manner, helping to prevent accidents or confusion, particularly during busy boarding times. Conductors ensure that passengers are aware of safety instructions, such as standing clear of the platform edge and waiting for the train to come to a complete stop before boarding. By facilitating a safe and efficient boarding process, conductors help maintain a positive experience for passengers and contribute to overall operational safety.

The other choices do not encompass the full scope of a conductor's responsibilities during boarding. Allowing unrestricted access to the train would compromise safety and order. Monitoring the train's speed is primarily a function of the operator or engineer, while collecting tickets may happen but is not a direct management strategy for boarding and alighting. Thus, directing passengers and ensuring safety protocols is the most comprehensive and appropriate method employed by conductors.