Listeners, as you already know, we had earlier discussed the use of Braille on railway station platforms — how the platform numbers, like Platform No. 1 and Platform No. 2, are written in Braille and displayed on both sides. Today, however, I want to share a thought — a personal suggestion — that I feel could improve this system. This is just my individual opinion, which I’m trying to present through this platform. My effort here is to at least make this idea reach as far as possible — and especially to those who are differently abled — so that some improvement can be made with collective support. Here’s my suggestion: At railway platforms, the stairs used to go down from the overbridge are fitted with iron pillars or railings. But what happens is, the Braille signage indicating the platform number is placed lower down — near the first step. This creates a problem because there’s usually a big crowd at such places. People are carrying large bags and luggage, and they rush in both directions — coming and going. In such crowd situations, it becomes hard to identify the platform number in time using the Braille system. So, when one climbs up the bridge to change platforms, the Braille signage that indicates which platform you are about to reach should ideally be placed at the top, before stepping down. Currently, it's placed lower down near the first step, which I believe is not ideal. The idea is that if someone needs to go to Platform No. 2, and the Braille number is visible before stepping down, they can immediately know and avoid going down the wrong staircase. This is especially helpful because the signage placed at the lower step doesn’t help much in crowded conditions. Yes, there is electronic signage and even lift buttons with Braille, but due to internet delays and congestion in the lifts, that too can become difficult. So, in conclusion, I believe that placing Braille signage at a higher, more visible position, before stepping down, would help commuters, especially the visually impaired, to navigate more easily and safely.
