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Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has introduced Braille-enabled facilities at Kochi Metro's Changampuzha Park Metro Station to make public transport more accessible for visually impaired passengers.
Kochi Metro's Braille-Enabled Facilities
The initiative was launched in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry, Young Indians, under a programme called Project Disha. KMRL Managing Director Loknath Behera inaugurated the facilities in the presence of representatives from the organisation and Dr. Reem S, a visually impaired commuter and assistant professor. The project aims to help visually impaired passengers move around the station independently and with confidence.
Inclusion of a Braille Map
As part of the initiative, the metro station now has a tactile Braille map that allows passengers to understand the station layout through touch. Braille markings have also been installed on handrails, so that visually impaired passengers can find their way easily while walking through the station. Important areas such as ticket counters, entry and exit points, and other facilities have been marked with Braille signboards.
Keeping of Additional Braille Scripts & Their Benefits
Additional Braille scripts have also been placed at key points across the station to guide passengers. These new features work along with the tactile pathways that have been present in the metro system since it began operations in 2017. Metro staff are also available to assist passengers whenever needed, ensuring the new system works together with human support. The improved facilities are designed to help visually impaired passengers plan their journey, reduce dependence on others, and move around the station more comfortably.
Commuters' Opinions
Dr. Reem S suggested that regular public announcements should be made to remind other commuters not to block tactile paths and Braille markings. She also recommended installing more Braille scripts to help new users understand the routes easily. Metro officials said they will consider these suggestions and work on improving the system further.
Representatives from the Confederation of Indian Industry, Young Indians, said they are also exploring plans to extend Project Disha to other metro stations in the future, making public transport more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
