Indian Railways has decided to adopt modern, standard signages at all stations across the country as currently there are more than 7300 Railway Stations in 17 Zones and 68 Divisions which have different styles of signages which often confuse travellers, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said today.
The display of names of stations will now be on the same standard across the country.
The minister released a Booklet on Standard Signages at Stations which he said prioritizes simple language, clear font, easy-to-see colours and intuitive pictograms. It is made keeping in mind the requirements of all passengers, including elderly, women, children and divyangjan.
The colours of signages, type and size of fonts have been standardized. Concept of grouping of signages has been introduced for faster way finding. New tertiary boards displaying station names with tricolor backgrounds have been introduced. Emphasis has been laid on providing intuitive way finding and availability of signages on key decision-making points. While there is emphasis on standardization of signages, the need for flexibility in case of stations with strong architectural vocabulary has also been recognized.
The minister released the booklet in the presence of the chairman and members of the railway board while the General Managers of Zonal Railways also joined the event via video conferencing.
“Indian Railways is creating New Identity of New India by developing railway stations across the country. Indian Railways is now redeveloping 1275 stations across India under ‘Amrit Bharat Stations Scheme,’ Vaishnaw said.
“As you all know, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Indian Railways have been working tirelessly to enhance the passenger experience at railway stations. It was felt to issue standard guidelines on Signages at Stations that will be consistent and adequate,” he explained.
Indian Railways has the largest number of stations in the world than any other rail network. It is important that every passenger should have easy access to facilities by having standard signage.
Amrit Bharat Station Scheme:
Ministry of Railways has formulated a new policy for modernization of stations named “Amrit Bharat Station” scheme. The scheme envisages development of stations on a continuous basis with a long term vision. It is based on Master Planning for long term and implementation of the elements of Master Plan as per the needs and patronage of the station. The scheme will primarily focus on providing safe, comfortable and clean railway premises.
Three railway stations viz. Rani Kamalapati, Gandhinagar Capital, & Sir M.Visvesvaraya Terminal have been commissioned. Building upon the experience of these three stations, 1275 stations selected under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme include stations located in major cities and places of tourist and pilgrimage importance. Work is in progress at 88 stations. Tendering and planning in progress for 1187 Stations.
