As Bengaluru Metro expands its network, the authorities are stepping up efforts to improve passenger safety. In a major move, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has proposed installing platform screen doors (PSDs) at 177 existing and upcoming stations at an estimated cost of ₹1,274 crore. Here’s everything you need to know.
Bengaluru Metro To Install Platform Screen Doors At All Stations
According to Moneycontrol, the BMRCL has proposed installing platform screen doors across its network as part of its long-term passenger safety plan. The proposal, included in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase 3A (Hebbal–Sarjapur), covers a total of 191 stations.
Since provisions for platform screen doors have already been made at 14 stations, including 12 underground stations on the Pink Line and two Airport Line stations, the remaining 177 stations will be equipped under the proposed ₹1,274-crore project.
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How Will Platform Screen Doors Help Commuters?
From unauthorised track access to accidental falls and suicides, the DPR report revealed an uptick in such incidents in Bengaluru Metro over the past two years. The platform screen will, to begin with, prevent accidental falls onto the tracks by creating a physical barrier between passengers and the railway line. It will also prevent objects from falling on the tracks and, in turn, reduce emergency incidents.
These doors will also help reduce suicide and trespassing incidents by restricting access to the tracks. Reports suggest that during peak hours, they will help improve crowd management and encourage orderly boarding and alighting. Furthermore, they will ensure the platform doors open only after a train has stopped correctly, making boarding and alighting safer.
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More information on this upgrade proposal is awaited.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/buddymantra (representative image)
FAQs
What are platform screen doors (PSDs)?
Platform screen doors are automatic safety barriers installed along the edge of metro platforms. They open only when a train is correctly aligned at the station, allowing passengers to board and alight safely.
Why is Bengaluru Metro planning to install platform screen doors?
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) plans to install platform screen doors to improve passenger safety, prevent accidents and trespassing, and make boarding and alighting more organised.
What are the benefits of platform screen doors?
Platform screen doors help prevent accidental falls onto the tracks, reduce trespassing, improve crowd management, minimise service disruptions, and make boarding safer.