Metro trains are undeniably the lifeline of Indian public transport. In many cities, they have become the primary mode of transport for a large part of the population. It has become a part of our daily lives, so much so that we can blindly spot the station we need to reach or the train we need to catch. However, even after visiting these metro stations almost every day, there are a lot of things that can still confuse us. One of these things is the yellow tiles on the metro stations. Even if you are not a regular, you have likely noticed bright yellow textured tiles running along the platform edge and the station walkways. At first, they can seem like a design choice but in truth, they have a much deeper purpose. Read on to know all about these yellow tiles and their significance.
Metro Stations Have Yellow Tiles For A Reason
These yellow tiles present in Indian metro stations are not just a design choice but are actually a safety feature. They are a lifeline for visually impaired travellers that helps them navigate the metro stations with confidence and independence. These styles are part of the system called tactile paving. They are also known as Tenji blocks or Braille tiles
The system was invented in 1967 by Japanese inventor Seiichi Miyake to assist blind and low-vision pedestrians. The first-ever tactile paving was installed in Okayama City Japan. Today, metro stations all over the world, not just in India, use this design. It is certainly a big step in making public transport inclusive for all.
Building A More Inclusive Future
We have all observed two patterns in these pavings: raised dots and long lines. Each of them serves a specific function. The raised dots indicate caution zones, mostly present near platform edges, escalators, stairs, etc. A person using a cane can observe these elevated dots, which alerts them to pause and look around. The long lines, on the other hand, act as guides that help visually impaired travellers to walk in a straight direction. These styles are placed along walkways and lead towards exits, ticket counters, etc.
While their design serves a purpose, there is still a question of their colour. Well, their bright yellow colour isn’t chosen for just aesthetics. It enhances visibility for those with partial vision and makes the pathways easier for them to identify. Although helping visually impaired travellers is their primary objective, they also offer other advantages. The tactile pavings offer safety for all passengers, indicating where the platform edge begins.
These yellow tactile tiles in Indian metro stations are a significant step towards promoting inclusivity when it comes to public transport.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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