NEW DELHI, Dec 30: The government has published draft guidelines on how to make railway stations, their facilities, and trains accessible to individuals with disabilities. The guidelines emphasise the importance of incorporating technology-enabled features like text-to-speech and easily navigable pictograms. In order to make the proposed guidelines more user-friendly, the Department of the People with Disabilities (PwDs) has asked stakeholders and the general public to provide their feedback, objections, and suggestions by January 29. The suggested guidelines also emphasise the necessity of specifically designed website features that appeal to “divyangjans,” guaranteeing an adaptable and user-friendly interface design. According to the draft guidelines, these features will integrate technology-enabled accessibility features like text-to-speech and easily readable pictograms, adhering to universal design principles and World Wide Web Consortium guidelines.
The proposal calls for creating a one-click template and specialised mobile app that would show disabled passengers all the amenities and information that are available to them in trains as well as at stations. Credible announcements about PwD facilities will be incorporated into public announcement systems at train stations and platforms to promote inclusivity. According to the draft guidelines, this covers digital displays, captioning, and sign language. Along with Braille signage, standardised illuminated signage for all stations has also been suggested. According to these, frontline employees will receive sign language training to guarantee clear communication.Ramps, handrails, and accessible entry and exit points are required by the guidelines. It is advised that parking spaces designated as accessible be clearly marked with signage so that people with disabilities can park there more easily. According to the draft guidelines, accessible help booths run by “Divyangjan Sahayaks” and low-height ticket counters with accessibility signage are suggested as ways to improve the accessibility experience overall. The guidelines emphasised the need to provide accessible restrooms, drinking water booths, foot-over bridges, tactile guiding blocks, and unobstructed zones on platforms. The guidelines include information on coordinated lighting systems and accessible lifts at platforms. Proposed guidelines include inclusive coach interiors with accessible toilets and seating arrangements, as well as the integration of accessible features in new train coaches, prominent signage, Braille coach numbers, and contrasting exterior colours. Divyang-friendly facilities will continue to be inspected by multidisciplinary committees under the current system. To actively involve the public in raising accessibility standards, complaint books, websites, and mobile apps are introduced as feedback mechanisms.
