The government has taken a significant step towards enhancing accessibility for specially-abled people in railway stations and trains via new draft guidelines. The guidelines emphasize the integration of technology-enabled features, including text-to-speech and user-friendly pictograms. The Department of People with Disabilities (PwDs) has urged the stakeholders and the public to provide feedback on the proposed guidelines. Comments, objections, and suggestions are invited until January 29, 2024.
Website Features Tailored for ‘Divyangjans’
The proposed guidelines underscore the importance of dedicated website features catering to ‘divyangjans.’ The aim is to ensure a flexible and accessible interface design, adhering to universal design principles and World Wide Web Consortium guidelines.
Inclusive Announcements and Signage at Train Stations
For inclusivity, the guidelines recommend credible announcements regarding facilities for PwDs integrated into public announcement systems at train stations and platforms. This includes sign language, captioning, and digital displays. Standardized illuminated signage with Braille signage is also proposed.
Enhancing Accessibility Infrastructure
The guidelines emphasize accessible entry and exit points, ramps, handrails, and designated accessible parking areas with clear signage. Frontline staff will be trained in sign language, and low-height ticket counters with accessibility signage and accessible help booths are proposed.
Creating Unobstructed Zones and Specialized Facilities
To enhance overall accessibility, the guidelines call for unobstructed zones on platforms, tactile guiding blocks, and accessible toilets, drinking water booths, and foot-over bridges. Accessible lifts at platforms and well-coordinated lighting systems are outlined in the guidelines.
Inclusive Train Coaches and Monitoring Mechanisms
The proposed guidelines for Railways include the integration of accessible features in new train coaches, prominent signage, Braille coach numbers, and contrasting colors for exteriors. Inclusive coach interiors with accessible toilets and seating arrangements are also part of the recommendations. The existing system of station inspections by multi-disciplinary committees will continue, with feedback mechanisms through complaint books, websites, and mobile apps introduced to actively engage the public in improving accessibility standards.
(With PTI Inputs)