Railways to make 1,500 stations 'disabled friendly'

With a view on providing convenience to physically challenged people, the Railways have decided to provide special facilities in over 1,500 stations in the country.

With a view on providing convenience to physically challenged people, the Railways have decided to provide special facilities in over 1,500 stations in the country.

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Special facilities like access ramps, reserved parking slots, low height water taps and suitable toilets for differently-abled people will be developed in phases at important railway stations, a senior Railway Ministry official said.

"The decision in this regard has been taken by the Railway Board. We have earmarked 1,560 stations for the purpose and the work at all these B-Category stations -- most of them in state capitals and important cities -- will be completed by the end of 2010," he said.

Railways have nearly 7,000 stations spread in 16 zones.

Non-slippery walk way for the handicapped and special signage for the blind will also be put up at the stations. "The Board has also decided to have 'May I help you booths' specially to guide and assist them in case of need," the officer said.