DRA CMRL Compilation of Submissions Till 20150825

Chennai Metro Accessibility : A Compilation
Making Chennai Metro accessible to all ...including passengers with disabilities
Submissions from DRA to CMRL

from end 2011 - July 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
S. NO
PAGE
15July2015Coverletterwithrequirementsandsuggestionspostaccesswalkthrough
3July2015Appendix1:UserExperiencesofChennaiMetroAccessibility
3July2015Appendix2:KeyConcerns&Commitmentsnotkept
12
4July2014Visualguidereference,matrix,minutes&POApostCMRL&DRAmeet
25
15Feb2012AccessibleChennaiMetroINFRASTRUCTUREchecklist
55
14Feb2012AccessibleChennaiMetroRAILCARchecklist
69
Apr2012CMRLNewsletter(
Facilities Planned for Physically Challenged in Chennai Metro Stations & Coaches)
74
CorrespondencerecordtilldateDRA<>CMRL:engagementonaccessibility(20112015)
76
Referenceselfevaluationchecklist:TransitSystemAccessibilityChecklistof2015
106
Reference:DelhiMetroAccessAuditof2012
137
10
SUBMISSION
15 July 2015
Team CMRL
Poonamallee High Road,
Koyambedu,
Chennai 600107
Dear Mr. Bansal,
Team DRA shared the same joy at Chennai Metros service inauguration along with Chennais citizenry,
compounded with the excitement and hope that here, finally would be one part of Chennais public service
space that was guaranteed accessible.1 Especially since Disability Rights Alliance had extensively inputted
pro-bono into accessibility features of Chennai Metro by engaging with CMRL for over 40 months till date.
(Meeting records, correspondence and document submissions are compiled in
Accessibility inputs for
CMRL
.2 A physical copy can be provided if needed.)
Imagine our dismay when our July 3rd 2015 maiden accessibility walk-through showed little or no signs of
3
accessibility planning right from the design to completion! The accessibility checklist was abandoned
halfway as the sheer volume of errors that needed fixing overwhelmed the group.
As things stand, (without taking into account the number of stations and CMRL systems to be completed in
the near future), there is practically a denial of service - almost to the point of total exclusion - of at least
10% of Chennais population. Select feedback from disabled access auditors is available in
APPENDIX 1.
We find ourselves today in the very position that we wanted to avoid at all cost : of demanding retrofits
requiring disruption and significant expenses to address issues that were supposed to be ensured in the
planning process itself.
KEY CONCERNS : The following concerns needing immediate or timebound redressal are elaborated in
APPENDIX 2
:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Independent travel rendered impossible by non-compliant design

Safety from hazards and potential injury
Inefficient, incomplete information channels
Rail coach ergonomic flaws
Srinivasan, M (2012, May 6), Chennai Metro will be barrier-free: CMRL.

The Hindu
. Retrieved from
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-metro-will-be-barrierfree-cmrl/article3388348.ece
2
See : Accessibility inputs for CMRL
DRA
Retrieved from
http://bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl
3
On our way : transit system accessibility checklist which we had requested information on prior to our
postponed 24th June 2015 meeting
https://www.scribd.com/doc/270469282/on-our-way-accessibility-checklist-en
Secretariat : c/o DLU, Vidya Sagar, 1, Ranjit Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai - 600 085 Phone:
22354784 E: disabilityrightsalliance.in@gmail.com
DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl
Page 1 of 146
REQUIREMENTS & SUGGESTIONS :

1. Accessibility consultant : An expert to be appointed on a paid basis and provided with plans,
drawings, maps, manuals and specs of stations, coaches, equipment and services so as to urgently
a. provide practical, economical retrofits for errors in completed work,
b. plan design inputs to ensure accessibility standards of work near completion
c. draw up an SOP to ensure sustained inclusion and future accessibility and, sustained
inclusion and short term retro-fixes.
2. Design and procurement standards updation : Detailed accessibility standards and specifications to
be incorporated in design, procurement and testing processes, existing tenders to be updated to
reflect the same
3. Testing : On site pendulum testing to measure real-world floor slipperiness to be conducted, with
findings data to be shared in the public domain.
4. Compliance Inspection by Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety :
With specific respect to the safety,
usability and accessibility standards detailed in DRAs submissions till date, a comprehensive
accessibility audit of station, rail car, equipment, processes etc to be conducted and published with
guidelines to ensure a universally designed accessible travel experience uniformly and consistently
across India.
5. Education, Training and Orientation : Incorporation of diversity training and universal design of
customer experience in the core syllabus of customised educational courses on Metro Rail
Transport Technology and Management4 as well as induction and lifelong learning programmes for
staff.
We hope to hear from CMRL, a response or an invitation for redressal hearing from DRA in this regard.
Failure to receive a reply, after all these sincere efforts of engaging with CMRL for an accessible transport
mechanism would lead us to believe that CMRL is not so concerned about providing a public utility service
which truly meets the needs of the user public, including the disabled.
nd
DRA would like to place on record here the courtesy and helpfulness of the CMRL staff on the 3
July
access walk-through; their pleasantness - even in the face of frustration of the increasingly irate group is
to be commended.
Sincerely,
TEAM DISABILITY RIGHTS ALLIANCE

Project Contact :
Smitha S
Course paused at IIT-Madras but still continuing in IIT Delhi. Programme Code : CEX Postgraduate Diploma in
Metro Rail Transport : Technology and Management Department of Civil Engineering. IIT Delhi retrieved from
http://civil.iitd.ac.in/File.pdf/10.PGDiploma.pdf
4
Secretariat : c/o DLU, Vidya Sagar, 1, Ranjit Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai - 600 085 Phone:
22354784 E: disabilityrightsalliance.in@gmail.com
Page 2 of 146
Appendix 1: User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility - 3 July 2015
Appendix 1 : User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility 3 July 2015
Appendix 1 : User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility 3 July 2015
Page 3 of 146
Contents
EXPERIENCE SPEAKS: DRA-NTT Data Team access trip (3/7/2015) ......................................... 3
1.
Ummul Khair .............................................................................................................. 3
2.
Shankar Subbiah ......................................................................................................... 3

PHYSICAL ACCESS .......................................................................................................... 3
INFORMATION ACCESS .................................................................................................. 4
3.
V.S. Sunder ................................................................................................................. 5

Eternal Optimism: The CMRL flashback ......................................................................... 5
Refusal to accept REALITY: Railing against the current state ................................. 7
4.
Smitha Sadasivan ........................................................................................................ 8

a)
TOILET: ................................................................................................................ 8
b)
LIFT:..................................................................................................................... 8
c) EMERGENCY AID: .................................................................................................... 8
5.
d)
DISPLAY MESSAGES: ............................................................................................ 8
e)
SIGN LANGUAGE:................................................................................................. 8
f)
ENTRY TO TRAIN: .................................................................................................... 8
g)
TICKET COUNTERS, TOKENS, TICKET VENDING MACHINE, TOKEN GATE WAYS .... 9
Rajiv Rajan .................................................................................................................. 9
In the beginning, giddy with great expectations...

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EXPERIENCE SPEAKS: DRA-NTT Data Team access trip (3/7/2015)

1. UMMUL KHAIR
I am Ummul Khair - a person with cerebral palsy, a wheelchair user, a legal activist, member
of Disability Rights Alliance and part of Disability Legislative Unit (South).
I was very happy that in our city Metro rail started, so that I could finally travel
independently. Sadly, due to the following inaccessible features of Chennai Metro, I cannot
travel independently without assistant.
a) Automatic ticket gates are too high- not reachable and I cannot see where to place
the token
b) Elevators according to the signage are to be used for disabled, elderly and sick
persons- yet the elevators are not disabled-friendly, I could not reach the emergency
intercom as it was too high.
c) I could not use the concourse emergency phone for the same reason
d) Similarly, the privacy lock in the toilet is too high for any wheelchair user
e) Signage says In case of emergency use stair case. How can disabled people like me
use the stair case - is there any alternative?
2. SHANKAR SUBBIAH
PHYSICAL ACCESS
1. Entry Access
1.1. The floor is too slippery and glossy for elderly people as well as crutch users and
others who may have stability difficulties. Tactile paths are incomplete in station
platforms like Koyambedu.
1.2. Token check points not accessible for wheel chair users. Have to be in sight and
height accessible for at least the path designated for them.
2. Toilet
2.1. The main toilet door is too heavy to push / pull for a person with Cerebral Palsy
or for a calliper / crutch user.
2.2. Once inside the toilet of Alandur station, the toilet door entrance is too narrow
for wheelchair, not even a medium adult wheel chair could enter, forget about
power wheelchairs! The width of the entrance was o.k. at Koyambedu however.
Does CMRL go by design standards or accommodate if space is available
2.3. The door is not sliding and also has a door closure arrangement that is tough to
open for people with locomotor impairments. The latch to close is on top not
reachable for wheelchair / crutch / calliper or somebody with a height of or below 4
ft. The latch is also not of the recommended standard.
2.5. No grip rails at Alandur station. And those structured are suitable for wheelchair
users or crutch users - both for wash basin and closet. The hand shower and flush
button are not easily accessible.
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3. The guard walls in platforms are provisioned at a height to have an aerial view of the
city. A wheelchair user cannot do so because of the height of the cemented structure
blocking his eyesight and denying the same joy as like others.
4. There is no guard rail on platforms at entry points where coach door opens. This may
in rush hours may cause others to push children or persons with disabilities bang on the
train
5. The gap between the platform and the coach by height and width is more. This may
cause the wheel struck for wheelchair users, or the cane getting stuck for visually
challenged.
6. Inside the coach, no provisions for wheel chair users to hold on or a positioning
place reserved for them.
7. The seats at least in the end portion of the longer seats should have handles for
somebody with low stability like elderly persons to position, switch over and for grip
while travelling
8. No water facility available in platforms for emergency conditions or for children or
for elderly persons with heart, dehydration risks in city hot like Chennai. Not sure
whether it is available even at lower levels of the station.
INFORMATION ACCESS
1. The station route displaying all to-and-fro stations is not in accessible colour
contrasts.
2. Toilet
2.1. For visually challenged, the tactile pathway leads to half way. Toilet is not
accessible through tactile pathway
2.2. Once inside the toilet, a person with low vision cannot read the signage for
Accessible Toilet. Colour on the signage board is not of recommended contrast.
There is no Braille information on toilet door nor is the toilet door sliding / with a
longer handle different from others, to know that it is an accessible toilet. No
separate toilet entrance for women and men. Visually challenged may take the
wrong direction, if there is no tactile signage on the door. It was said that there will
be somebody to assist. Not sure they will be for all the hours. But, still depending on
another is embarrassing. It may be questioned that how they are using other
stations and bus stand toilets. But, at least in new constructions let us follow
universal design standards and assist them.
2.3. The hand grip rails at Koyambedu station were sharp at the edges. The locking
system was different than Alandur.
2.4. The wash basin taps were sharp to hold and their handles were not as per
recommended standards.
3. Warning or Instructional boards near the escalator could not be read by persons with low
vision and are confusing for people with cognitive disabilities. Two or more colours used in
one board for same kind of information with not much pictorial signage is not user friendly.
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4. On the platforms, no information or directions to facilities like ATMs, Emergency

contact numbers, helpline are displayed.
5. In the station, information regarding induction loop facility is not displayed
prominently, but on top and cannot be noticed, until someone accidentally looks up and
sees it!
6. The signage (wheelchair symbol) for people with disabilities to board the train is not
prominent, the floor decal is too small and the tactile strip is too narrow for a person with
cane or low vision to stop easily before they get on to the edge of the platform.
7. The helpline numbers in the coach are not displayed in positions to immediately
notice.
8. Press the button for calling driver is not as per accessible standards of display for
low vision as well as persons with intellectual disabilities. No Braille instructions were
embossed.
9. The station name vinyls are flapping away at quite a height. No permanent display in
bigger sizes on walls on platforms to be read and understand by persons with low vision as
well as cognitive difficulties. The You-are-at station boards are too small to get noticed ,
placed almost just for namesake and not in colour standards for accessibility. Tactile maps
or diagrams are non-existent.
10. I am not sure whether there were direction signs for toilet locations for those on the
platform.
The only plus point was the staff who were courteous to assist us all the way up and down.
Given information, I believe at least the younger generation staff who accompanied us in
the audit trip got sensitized on accessibility requirements - this was a positive outcome.
Unfortunately the ISL-trained staff did not seem to know basic minimum sign language
gestures.
The photos with captions (37 MB) can be downloaded from http://www.we.tl/BQehK0dJWK
3. V.S. S UNDER
E TERNAL OPTIMISM VS . REFUSAL TO ACCEPT REALITY

ETERNAL OPTIMISM: THE CMRL FLASHBACK
We at the `Disability Rights Alliance' (DRA) have been trying to work with the Chennai Metro
Rail for more than three years, trying to ensure that at least this mode of public transport
might possibly try to make sure to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities. For
example, I have an email dated Jan 1, 2013, addressed to a CMRL official where I try to
describe a very dispiriting recce made by two of us from DRA of the CMBT Chennai Metro
which, according to The Hindu of Dec.18, 2012, was one of two stations whose structures
were then complete. This is what I said in that email:
It appears that (The Hindu's report notwithstanding), the station is likely to become
operational only around September. We asked the people at the site if we could look
at the drawings and check out such details as dimensions of elevators, toilets for the
disabled, gradients of ramps, etc.
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Unfortunately, the drawings we could see did not have many of these details. I
wonder if it will be possible for you to send us an e-copy of the latest drawings,
complete with all details. In fact, some details such as dimensions and specifications right down to flooring slip resistance, lighting lumens etc, would be appreciated.
DRAs requests as expressed from the start, included the following (in addition to
what was committed by Chennai Metro in its media release of May 2012)
Progress update on recommendations submitted so far
Transparency in sharing information to enable accurate inputs with the

group, or the appointment of an Accessibility Consultant to ensure the same.
- Disclosure to the public on what accessibility features will be present /

possible, and workaround suggestions for what will be inaccessible so that
the common passenger knows what to expect.
- Enable disabled citizens of this State to be apprised of CMRL progress by

making its website compliant as per GIGW / WCAG 2 guidelines.
- Ensure as far as possible, the following accessibility features as

practice / compliance : as outlined by ACCESS FOR ALL - Best Practices
best
I, for my part, would like to make two specific requests/recommendations:

i.
Can you please appoint an Accessibility consultant (such as Shivani Gupta of

AccessAbility, who is herself a wheelchair-user, in whose competence/
sensitivity almost every disabled person would have total confidence) to
ensure that our various concerns will be safeguarded?
ii.
Or if the above is not feasible for some reason, can you please provide us with
an itemised list of how the various issues discussed in the attachment
Accessibility-Inputs-For-Chennai-Metro-Rail have been addressed by CMRL?
And we have been trying ever since to pin down CMRL to reassure us with plans that met
international accessibility standards ... and trying ... and trying!
Two-and-a-half years later, yet another member of DRA finally managed, after what must
have been a record number of phone-calls and emails, to extract a promise that several
officials of CMRL would meet with a bunch of us this Wednesday (24/06/15) at 4 pm. We
were all excited that we would finally have a chance to talk to them and get some details
before the metro becomes operational - since it is so expensive to retrofit something that
has already been constructed with serious drawbacks in its plans.
We then get an email sent by another of our colleagues - at 12.25 on Wednesday - that she
had just received a phone call from the CMRL office to tell her that Due to some urgent
calls by the Government the entire team had to do an urgent inspection and report of all the
stations. They have rescheduled the meeting for after the 5th of July.
Now we learn the reason for the sudden cancellation: CM may launch the metro on Sunday,
yesterday's newspapers announced. So, as usual, we can only hope they got it right. In spite
of multiple requests that access audits be performed in advance, preferably by an access
expert who is herself a PwD, such requests are treated as mindless baying in the wind, and
they continue to make mistakes - and retro-fitting, being prohibitively expensive, will never
be considered - so that would be yet another opportunity lost.
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REFUSAL TO ACCEPT REALITY: RAILING AGAINST THE CURRENT STATE

We finally got to do our access audit of Chennai Metro.
Rather than boring you with a blow-by-blow description of the evening, let me simply
mention the more glaring goofs.
i.
When the train comes to the platform, there is a non-trivial gap between the
rake and the platform - so much in fact that the little front wheels of manually
operated wheelchairs run a serious and dangerous risk of slipping into the
gap if, by chance, it rotates through 90 degrees, as is likely when it attempts
to navigate the 2-3 inch height difference between the platform and the floor
of the train.
In order to avoid the danger described above, it becomes necessary to turn
around and reverse into the train, as the front wheel is large and runs no such
danger; but this means propelling oneself up and backwards to get into the train.
Given that the train doors are open only for half a minute, and that there are
likely to be some fifty or more other `normal' people pushing every one and thing
in the way in order to get into the train, all this is not very encouraging to the
wheelchair user.
To add spice to the exercise, there is a Trishul-shaped object bang in the middle
between the doors on either side of the train, intended for people to hang on to,
which one should manoeuvre around, and find something to hang on to. There is
nothing like a seat belt which one can lock one's wheelchair to.
ii.
The ticket counters are not low enough for use by people in a wheelchair. To
make matters worse, you cannot buy return ticket for A-B-A.
iii.
When we finally got to `B' (which was Koyambedu for us), I needed to use a
toilet. A helpful Samaritan told me there were toilets at both `concourse' and
`platform' levels, while we needed to go the `concourse' level to buy tickets to
get back to A' (Alandur). And there was no sign at platform level as to where one
may find the elusive toilets.
iv.
So I go down to the Concourse level; and the first problem was getting past the
turnstile. As our group had got separated when we boarded the train at Alandur,
we had stopped at an intermediate station, to get into a later train they must all
be coming on. And then, I learnt you should complete the travel from A to B
within prescribed time-limits. So when I inserted by token in the turnstile, it
wouldn't open. I would have learnt the reason for this if my wheelchair had been
a few feet taller, when I would have been able to see a red light flashing and a
sign explaining why it was flashing. One of the people who was `escorting' me
told me this as also where I should go to pay the excess fine of some Rs. 10 in
order to get through.
v.
By now, I am ready to use that toilet, and am directed to a `Gents' toilet, which is
clearly not accessible. When I find no signs which may give me a clue, I ask
somebody who tells me the only disabled friendly is on the platform level!
Meanwhile, I've got to go! So I go to the gents' toilet, and find, on opening the
door, that I have to walk across a room which has two wash basins and water all
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over the floor, which I need to gingerly negotiate before going to the room with
the WC.
vi.
After all this, and rubbing my wet hands on my jeans rather than use the
unappetising towel next to the wash-basin, I bought my ticket to Alandur prior to
ascending to the platform level and joining my friends.
And could not get home soon enough, to lick my wounds after this thoroughly demoralising
experience.
4. SMITHA SADASIVAN
a) TOILET:
The tactile path did not guide a person till the commode in toilet. The door locks
were high for wheel chair users. The doors to accessible toilets are narrow and
huge and cannot be managed by a wheel chair user on his / her own. A wheel
chair user cannot reach the flush button on the wall above the commode or
wash face at sink due to a handrail around the sink.
b) LIFT:
The buttons in the lift were also high for wheel chair users though there was
Braille embossment on the switches. The emergency call button took a long time
to answer and when someone answered it was not audible for wheel chair users
inside the lift though the person at the other end is able to hear us well and was
answering the call. There is no guidance for people with hearing impairment as
to how to connect with whom in case of emergency.
c) EMERGENCY AID:
There is a written message saying, in case of emergency, use stairs. But there is
no mention of alternate arrangement for people with disabilities in case of
emergencies. On the platform, when the emergency glass is broken and call is
made, none attended the call from the other end. It was high too for wheel chair
user.
d) DISPLAY MESSAGES:
Signs and Braille embossment for many displayed messages were missing. The
colour contrast was dull and font was smaller at different points where written
messages were displayed.
e) SIGN LANGUAGE:
A small part of the work force had been provided with a very short sign language
interpretation training but is single handed whereas most of Indians sign with
both hands. The one employee who managed to sign was very slowly signing
alphabets only in single hand which doesnt help a conversation. There needs to
be professional training and repeated practice sessions every day for 20 minutes
to keep them on pace with signing.
f) ENTRY TO TRAIN:
There was a considerable gap between the train and platform where a wheel
chair user cannot navigate himself/herself. There is no mechanism outside the
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train to delay the stoppage of train for more than a minute while a person with
disability or a group of them are entering the train. There is only a button for
stopping train for more duration from inside.
g) TICKET COUNTERS, TOKENS, TICKET VENDING MACHINE, TOKEN GATE WAYS,
etc were inaccessible for Ummul and other friends who had limited hand
function or used low wheel chairs.
5. RAJIV RAJAN
The DRA campaign with the CMRL authorities started with a meeting the PRO of CMRL 3
years ago. He assured that all international standards of accessibility will be followed in the
multiple crore city transport project. He also asked the members to give the requirements
as a submission and he will try to include it in their plan. We had a series of meetings after
the first one including with the CMD. The project authorities refused to share the blue print
of the construction plan when wanted to have a look and give our ideas according to the
plan. They started to avoid us beyond a point. We continued trying to work until June-end
when we had a meeting with the coach interior design team and discovered that the
emergency call system was not accessible.
I had one of my worst nightmares coming true on the day when the DRA team took a trial
trip in CMRL. Toilets in Alandur and Koyambedu stations were totally inaccessible for
wheelchair users. The tactile path way was broken with no connections between them at
many places. The cane that guides people with visual impairment could get stuck in holes on
the floor of Koyambedu Station. Front wheel of a wheelchair got stuck in between the train
and platform. Signages at various places were totally inaccessible for people with low vision.
There was no sign language interpreter available at the stations. Ticket counters were not
accessible for wheelchair users. The polished floor was too slippery for crutch users. All in all
it was one of my worst nightmares coming true. Where are the international accessibility
standards that were promised to us? I think the entire team of CMRL should take a trip to
South Korea to understand what the international standards are like. Why in India alone
there is such a wide gap between policy and implementation? Is it because the authorities
don't care about 10 percent of the population? Why there has to be such a big gap between
the cup and the lip?
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APPENDIX 2
KEY CONCERNS & COMMITMENTS NOT KEPT
Contents
KEY CONCERNS: ................................................................................................................................................................................ 2
A.
B.
C.
D.
INDEPENDENT TRAVEL RENDERED IMPOSSIBLE BY NON-COMPLIANT DESIGN: ..................................................................... 2

SAFETY FROM HAZARDS AND POTENTIAL INJURY: ..................................................................................................................... 2
INEFFICIENT, INCOMPLETE INFORMATION CHANNELS ............................................................................................................... 2
RAIL COACH ERGONOMIC FLAWS: ................................................................................................................................................ 2
COMMITMENTS NOT KEPT ...................................................................................................................................................... 3

Guidelines and space standards for barrier free built environment for disabled and elderly persons ....................... 3
[A] IN METRO STATIONS: ............................................................................................................................................................... 3
DRA OBSERVATION .................................................................................................................................................................... 3

1.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Signages within and outside the Station .................................................................................................................................... 3

Non slippery floors and well lit passages. .................................................................................................................................. 4
Convenient design of station structure for free movement. ......................................................................................................... 4
Dedicated tactile tiles to access for the functional areas and platforms. ...................................................................................... 5
Bumpy tiles to alert customers who are blind or have low vision that they are nearing the edge of the platform. .......................... 5
Accessible toilets. .................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Ticket issuing window and Ticket Vending Machine counters with accessible heights................................................................. 7
Dedicated Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates. .................................................................................................................... 8
Induction loops at ticket counters for hearing impaired passengers. ........................................................................................... 8
Simple and Uniform Terminal Design avoiding glossy surfaces/glasses. .................................................................................... 8
Ramp as per standards and with handrail. ................................................................................................................................ 8
Adequate landing space at the start and end of every ramp. ...................................................................................................... 8
Stair cases as per standards with handrails............................................................................................................................... 9
Steps with contrasting coloured nosing or anti skidding tiles at the edge of the steps will be provided for easy access. .............. 9
[B] IN LIFTS: ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Lift in street level at convenient location and lift facility within the station. ................................................................................................ 9
Lift cars with required space and wide doors. ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Audio announcement and Braille facilities within lift. Signs printed in Braille in the lifts to indicate floors as well as visual/ audible
announcements. ................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Grip rails on 3 walls inside the elevator car. ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Elevator control buttons positioned at convenient heights. ...................................................................................................................... 9
[C] COACHES: .....................................................................................................................................................................................10

General ...............................................................................................................................................................................................10
Wheelchair Egress Request .................................................................................................................................................................12
CAUTION : VISUAL DESIGN ..................................................................................................................................................13
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KEY CONCERNS:
These are the key concerns that need immediate or timebound redressal:
A. INDEPENDENT TRAVEL RENDERED IMPOSSIBLE BY
NON-
COMPLIANT DESIGN:
As things stand today, visiting a Chennai Metro station with its significant barriers outlined in
Appendix 2 is impossible for a visually impaired cane user or a wheelchair user unless they are
escorted. This redundancy needs to be reduced so that travellers are as independent as possible
and so that avoidable cost. Crucial problems include: structural design errors in toilets, gap
between train and platform, incorrect height of equipment service buttons and patchy tactile
pathways.
Even the dated CPWD guidelines have been serially violated.
Similarly, crutch users, the Deaf, people with low vision, short people, etc could also be forced into
dependence on support - the reasons being slippery flooring, lack of sign language assistance,
height of buttons/switches/counters, inadequate colour contrast and font size of displayed written
information, etc.
B. SAFETY FROM HAZARDS AND POTENTIAL INJURY:
Complaints
have been received from senior citizens and public at large about near-falls on the glossy, reflective
highly slippery floor surfaces in the stations. Crutch users are exhausted with the effort involved in
ensuring their crutch and legs dont slip. The lack of uniform diffused lighting adds to the overall
glare as does the lack of attention to sufficient colour contrast. Why has polished granite with its
high cost and poor slip resistance under even the best conditions been used? Emergency refuge
points have not been planned for situations when lifts cannot be used. With current placement of
platform edge warning tiles chances of a visually impaired person falling on the tracks is extremely
high.
C. INEFFICIENT, INCOMPLETE INFORMATION CHANNELS: The
signage design lacks adequate colour contrast even without taking into consideration the
interaction of material type, reflectance, illumination, viewing angle and distance. Tactile signage
when it is rarely present has not taken into account localisation usability tweaks needed in India.
Inadequate / lack of sign language assistance for the Deaf, absence of audio induction loop for
hearing aid users and inadequate colour contrast and font size on display information pose barriers.
Audio and tactile feedback has not been consistently applied to the detriment of the blind and
deaf-blind. The customer care is not aware of details of services that will be offered ex: availability
of wheelchairs, boarding assistance, mobile ramp to get into the train, communication on
assistance required to the destination station etc,
D. RAIL COACH ERGONOMIC FLAWS: The grab pole situated at wheelchair
entrance is a barrier to wheelchair manoeuvring as well as a hazard for visually impaired travellers
who risk banging into the same when boarding in a hurry. Fixes to the accessibility errors pointed
out already by DRA in the past have not been implemented for eg. folding seat impracticality.
Additionally the (currently non-functioning) emergency intercom and long stop button are
confusing in user interface.
Page 2 of 13
Page 13 of 146
COMMITMENTS NOT KEPT

CMRL MEDIA RELEASE OF 2012 ANNOTATED WITH POST INAUGURATION OBSERVATIONS BY DRA 3-7-15
CMRL PRESS RELEASE 2012:Facilities Planned for Physically
Challenged Persons in Chennai Metro Stations and Coaches
GUIDELINES AND SPACE STANDARDS FOR BARRIER FREE BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR DISABLED AND ELDERLY PERSONS
The facilities for Physically Challenged persons within the station will generally be
provided based on
Guidelines and space standards for Barrier Free Built Environment
for Disabled and Elderly Persons". Also, the design in general will be in accordance
with "Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled
and Elderly Persons", Central Public Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs &
Employment, 1998. The following facilities are planned to be provided within the
station for Physically Challenged Persons:
DRA OBSERVATION: While DRA has urged from 2011, the need to follow principles of
Universal Design, CMRLs commitment reassured that at least infrastructural
components of the service would be of a particular quality standard.
(One must point out here that Indias 1998 guidelines are outdated and myopic in their
focus on the built environment alone instead of the entire service continuum)
As DRAs preliminary access walkthrough indicates, these basic standards themselves
have been flouted.
[A] IN METRO STATIONS:

1. SIGNAGES WITHIN AND OUTSIDE THE STATION
Pictogram contrast insufficient,

made worse by excessive
reflectance / uneven lighting glare
Signs lit patchily, pictograms

are incompletely displayed
2. Dedicated parking space subject to space availability.

-
NIL
Page 3 of 13
Page 14 of 146
3. NON SLIPPERY FLOORS AND WELL LIT PASSAGES .

Worst possible floor surface material has been used. And then polished to a high gloss. Non-diffused
illuminance and resultant glare and retro-reflectance further confuses. This is a travesty!
4. CONVENIENT DESIGN OF STATION STRUCTURE FOR FREE MOVEMENT .

When selecting colours, designers and managers of buildings can have a major impact on the ability of
visually impaired people to use buildings. Two colours that contrast sharply to someone with normal
vision may be far less distinguishable to someone with a visual impairment. Therefore the contrast
between, for example door surrounds and walls must achieve a certain level - measured by its light
reflectance value (LRV).
The minimum requirements for colour contrast are as follows: LRV of wall should be 30 points
different from that of the floor and the ceiling. Skirting should have same LRV as wall. LRV of door
surround (architrave and frame) should be 30 points different from that of the wall. Door surround
and door can be the same or different colours. It is the surround that should contrast with the wall. .
The purpose of this is that if the door is open and the wall in the background and foreground are the
same colour the door opening can still be identified. LRV of the door furniture should be 15 points
different from that of the door.
No colour or luminance contrast between walls

and floors, and between walls and ceilings. Mirror
reflections and glare further confuse.
Page 4 of 13
Page 15 of 146
5. D EDICATED TACTILE TILES TO ACCESS FOR THE FUNCTIONAL AREAS AND PLATFORMS.
Tactile walking surface indicators are available in fits and starts and are not available to guide people to
the toilets for example.
6. BUMPY TILES TO ALERT CUSTOMERS WHO ARE BLIND OR HAVE LOW VISION THAT THEY ARE NEARING THE EDGE OF
THE PLATFORM .
Not only are TWSI warning blocks required for the length of the platform, with a 30 cm width row there
are cases in which a blind person falls from the platform as he or she steps over a TGSI installed near the
platform edge without recognizing it. The width of the platform edge warning should be a row of 60 cm
dotted tactile blocks.
Also there must be a distance of 80 to 100 cm from the front end of the TGSI to the platform edge for a
blind person to be able to stop after recognizing the TGSI.
The platform should

have one row of
dotted guiding blocks for persons with impaired vision, 800 mm. or more from the edge.
Page 5 of 13
Page 16 of 146
7. ACCESSIBLE TOILETS .
TOILETS Page 43
http://bit.ly/CpwdGuidelines
Light-weight PVC door shutter should be provided as a sliding door
Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled and Elderly Persons
Central Public Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs & Employment 1998
The main toilet door is too heavy to push / pull for a person with Cerebral Palsy or for a calliper / crutch
user.
Once inside the toilet of Alandur station, the toilet door entrance is too narrow. Where ideally
dimensions could cater to power wheelchairs, - not even a medium adult wheel chair could enter.
The latch to close door is on top not reachable for wheel chair / crutch / calliper or somebody with a
height of or below 4 ft.
Grip rail availability was random. One toilet, not in the picture had no grab rails making access to even
the sink impossible. Where available, the sharp edges rendered them unsafe.
The hygiene faucet and flush button are not easily accessible.
Reaching hygiene faucet

requires contortions !
Very sharp edges on

grab rails are unsafe
Shoes removed as wet floor

offered no slip resistance
Page 6 of 13
Page 17 of 146
8. TICKET ISSUING WINDOW AND TICKET VENDING MACHINE COUNTERS WITH ACCESSIBLE HEIGHTS .
COUNTERS, VENDING MACHINES Page 49
http://bit.ly/CpwdGuidelines
A minimum of 1 lowered service counter and 1 lowered vending machine on the premises.
Counter height not > 850 mm with space 350 mm deep and 700 mm high underneath
Coin slots of vending machines etc. to be located no higher than 1200 mm.
Central Public Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs & Employment 1998
A minimum of 1 lowered service counter and 1 disbursing machine on the premises.

Counter heights should not be in excess of 850 mm.
Allow a space at least 350 mm deep and 700 mm high under a counter, stand, etc.
Make sure that the coin slots of vending machines etc. are no higher than 1200 mm.
A knee recess beneath the ticket vending machines should be provided.
Install guiding blocks 300 mm. away from the vending machine for visually impaired.
The fare buttons, cancel buttons and other information buttons should be written in Braille or in
a distinct relief pattern.
www.bit.ly/CpwdGuidelines
Page 7 of 13
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9. D EDICATED AUTOMATIC FARE COLLECTION (AFC) GATES.
AFCs are much too high for people on wheelchairs Ummul on the left is shorter than Smitha who is
55 both are unable to see location to tap token. This could have been easily avoided by having
the validation area on front on the machine instead of the top.
10. INDUCTION LOOPS AT TICKET COUNTERS FOR HEARING IMPAIRED PASSENGERS.
The only induction loop spottedhigh away where none can see it 8 feet high! Where are the
induction loops at ticket counters? The real-world functioning of this is to be tested.
11. SIMPLE AND UNIFORM TERMINAL DESIGN AVOIDING GLOSSY SURFACES/GLASSES.

Refer No 3: NON SLIPPERY FLOORS AND WELL LIT PASSAGES.
No 4: CONVENIENT DESIGN OF STATION STRUCTURE FOR FREE MOVEMENT
12. RAMP AS PER STANDARDS AND WITH HANDRAIL .
13. ADEQUATE LANDING SPACE AT THE START AND END OF EVERY RAMP.
At Alandur, the ramp on the front side starts on the pavement which is not accessible. People directed us
to take the side entrance in the parking area.
Page 8 of 13
Page 19 of 146
14. STAIR CASES AS PER STANDARDS WITH HANDRAILS.

15. STEPS WITH CONTRASTING COLOURED NOSING OR ANTI SKIDDING TILES AT THE EDGE OF THE STEPS WILL BE
PROVIDED FOR EASY ACCESS .
No colour contrast
on anti-skid nosing
15 risers instead of 12
Maximum number of risers on a flight shall be limited to 12.

www.bit.ly/CpwdGuidelines
16. Adequate seating arrangement in platform
- To be checked
[B] IN LIFTS:
LIFT IN STREET LEVEL AT CONVENIENT
LOCATION AND LIFT FACILITY WITHIN THE
STATION.
LIFT CARS WITH REQUIRED SPACE AND WIDE

DOORS .
AUDIO ANNOUNCEMENT AND BRAILLE
FACILITIES WITHIN LIFT. SIGNS PRINTED IN
BRAILLE IN THE LIFTS TO INDICATE FLOORS AS
WELL AS VISUAL/ AUDIBLE ANNOUNCEMENTS.
GRIP RAILS ON 3 WALLS INSIDE THE ELEVATOR
CAR .
ELEVATOR CONTROL BUTTONS POSITIONED AT
CONVENIENT HEIGHTS .
Page 9 of 13
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Braille unevenly embossed

Unreachable from
wheelchair
Yellow flashing 'BUSY' light
w/o audio or tactile
equivalent
No pictogram for nonEnglish / cognitively
disabled
Braille is English contracted
which is unknown by
majority.
Also Braille available only
for button, not label
While button is raised, the
letters in relief aren't
outlined hence poorly
contrasted
No tactile / audio equivalent of button-pressed illumination.
Emergency intercom w/o video excludes deaf /deaf-blind etc
Music playing. ambient noise makes announcement inaudible
No clarity on usage of alarm vs emergency intercom
Vertical panel installed instead of horizontal range not to > 900-1100 mm from floor
[C] COACHES:
GENERAL
1. D EDICATED SEATING FACILITIES IN THE TRAIN .
Note the strange location of the International accessibility sign tucked away near the ceiling like
something to be ashamed about!
Page 10 of 13
Page 21 of 146
2. E ASY ACCESS TO THE CARS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES , INCLUDING WHEELCHAIR USERS , SHALL BE PROVIDED
THROUGH THE SIDE DOORS .
While this standing pole is useful for people entering

and exiting to grab for safety / stability, its position
could perhaps be relocated in coaches which have
wheelchair spaces.
Apart from it being a barrier to manoeuvring for
wheelchair users, it is a hazard for visually impaired
passengers who may walk straight into it while
boarding.
3. The rake shall be a high-floor design, with level boarding from platforms.
Page 11 of 13
Page 22 of 146
(CAPTIONS - CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT)

a) The gap is enough to impede independent travel for a wheelchair user
b) Unless they use a power wheelchair (Sunder faced no issue apart from dodging the pole, but his
wheelchair ran out of battery by end evening and India is yet to see wheelchair recharging
stations)
c) Meenakshi got stuck going in and required help to get back on platform. Even when attempting
backwards entry she was unable to board independently despite attempts at leverage and
considerable effort.
d) Smitha required assistance to board within the specified time, even then her assistant had to exert
significant effort at negotiating the gap.
4. Wheelchair and mobility-impaired boarding shall not require the use of
bridging or lifting devices.
5. The horizontal gap between the passenger door thresholds and platform
edge at rest shall not exceed 50 mm in nominal operating conditions, and
75 mm maximum.
6. The maximum vertical gap between the passenger door thresholds and
platform edge shall not exceed 31 mm in nominal operating conditions. In
no cases (including the worst operating conditions) shall the top
surface of the horizontal threshold of the car be lower than the top
edge of the platform. The gap between platform and the rail car enables
wheelchair users to enter and exit the train safely.
7. At least two wheelchair parking areas shall be available in each driver
car of the 4-car rakes. Four seats shall be available for the elderly
and handicapped passengers in all driver car ends.
8. Seats shall be provided for handicapped persons.
9. The designated areas for wheelchair parking shall be located adjacent to
an accessible entrance and shall be compliant with all ADA requirements.
10. Wheelchair users must be able to exit the car from any wheelchair
parking position through either of at least two accessible doors (on the
same side of the train).
WHEELCHAIR EGRESS REQUEST

i. A wheelchair egress request signal shall be provided which shall permit a
passenger in any car of a train to alert the operator to stop the car for
a prolonged time to enable wheelchair passengers to exit the train. This
system shall be ADA compliant and accessible to wheelchair-seated
passengers.
ii. The stop request shall consist of the following and shall be inhibited
when doors are open.
iii. Stop-request strips shall be located at wheelchair accommodations.
iv.
An audible-non-repeating chime and alarm light shall be installed in each

operators cab area.
A twin provision to be made for passengers with reduced mobility on the platform to enable to the
maximum extent possible, independence in boarding and deboarding.
Page 12 of 13
Page 23 of 146
SIGNAGES, Page 44
http://www.bit.ly/CpwdGuidelines
Signs should be in contrasting colours and preferably be embossed in distinct relief to allow visually impaired persons to
obtain the information they contain by touching them. The size, type and layout of lettering on signs shall be clear and
legible.
Central Public Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs & Employment, 1998.
Poor interface, confusing UX,

not yet functional, cramped
lettering, no relief / Braille
embossing, not high contrast,
no tactile / audio feedback,
deaf-blind needs ignored
VERDICT : FAIL
CAUTION : VISUAL DESIGN
DRA expresses grave concern over
the signage colour palette as usability has been
compromised. Contrast tests of recommended
combinations have mostly failed in compliance.
Size norms have been ignored too with grossly
limiting consequences.
Page 13 of 13
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MINUTES / POA CMRL & DRA MEET 4-JUL-2014

CHENNAI METRO RAIL ACCESSIBILITY FOR PwD
20Jul2014
DearMr.NarasimPrasad,
ThankyouforarrangingwhatwasamostinspiringdiscussiononCMRLaccessibility.
Apologiesforthedelayinreplying,someoftheseareasneededextensiveresearching.
Topicsdiscussedinthemeetingwereasfollows:
1. CMRLhasfollowedtheGuidelinesandSpaceStandardsforBarrierFreeBuilt
EnvironmentforDisabledandElderlyPersons1 ofCPWD,MinistryOfUrban
development,1998.(HereafterreferredtoasCPWDnorms)
DRAhighlightedthatbuiltaccessibilityishoweveronlyonepartoftheaccessibility
chain,otherelementslikeequipment,furnitureandservicesprovidedbypublic
entitiesmustbepartofaccessibilitycomplianceasshouldoperationand
maintenanceofthesametosustainaccessibilitystandards.Examples(lifts,toilets
etc)weregiven.
2. Passengerflowofpeoplewithdisabilitieswasdiscussedafterpresentations/inputs
fromCMRLteammembers(rollingstock,design,lifts,smartcards,architect,HRand
PR).
Fromourunderstanding
Theneedforaccessibledisabledparkingwhereparkingspaceisallottedand
pickup/dropoffpreferentialbayfordisabledatthenearestconvenient
entrancewasstressed.
Entranceswillbeaccessiblewithawiderampand/orliftforanychangein
level.
Toilet,landing,staircaseandpathwayswillalsobeasperCPWDnorms.
AtleastonestaffedcounterofanyticketingpointwillbeofCPWD
recommendedparameters,heightandwidthtoaccommodateanindependent
wheelchairuser.
AtleastoneoftheAFCbarriergateswillbewideenoughtoaccommodatea
GuidelinesandSpaceStandardsforBarrierFreeBuiltEnvironmentforDisabledandElderly
Persons
Page 25 of 146
wheelchairuser.
Surfaceswillbedry,welllitandslipresistantwithsuitablecolourcontrastvis
avistactileguidancecorridor.DRAflaggedtheneedforregularaccessaudit
schedulesandrefreshertrainingbasedonanoperationsandmaintenance
guidancemanualtoensureaccessibilityisnotcompromised(examplewet
floorsinaccessibletoiletsposegreatinconveniencetodisabledpassengers
withoutaids/applianceswhomovearoundbycrawling)orrendereduseless
(exampleaccessiblebathroomkeptlockedorusedasfacilitymanagement
storage.)
Asuitableemergencyassemblypointwillbedemarcatedinaccordanceto
CMRLsstationemergencyevacuationprotocolfordisabledpassengers.
Locationalsignage(withbrailleandAACpictogram)andalerts/
announcementswillbeuniversallydesignedwithprovisionofothersensory
counterpartswhereverfeasible.(Foregaudioannouncementforliftstartor
stopcouldhaveavisualcounterpartbywayoflightwhichglowsgreen,amber
andredandflasheswheneverappropriate).Additionalinformationalsignage
wasalsoexplored(guidanceforpassengeramenities,rightsand
responsibilities,emergencyevacuationmap,safetydosanddonts,firstaid
guidelines,suicidehelplinenumberetc)
GSFIswillformapointtopointtactileroute(fromentrance>accessible
ticketingcounter>wheelchairaccessiblegate>bothwheelchair
accessiblecoachboarding/disembarkingpointsandviceversa)insafety
yellowforvisuallyimpairedcustomers.Directionalanddecisionalguiding
blockswillbeusedforthiscorridoraspernorms.Additionally,warningtactile
tileswillrunacrosstheentireplatformlengthasasafetyfeaturetoprevent
accidentalfallingonthetracks.
ItwaspointedoutherebyDRAthattactilecorridorscouldextendtoallfour
coachesinsteadofbeinglimitedtothetwowheelchairaccessiblecoachesas
therearereservedseatsfordisabledpassengersineachcoach.CMRL
contractedstaffwillassistwithboarding/disembarkingandaccessibletoilet
maintenance,DRAofferedtosupplementtrainingforthesame.(DRAwas
enthusedtolearnthatfellowdisabilitysectororganisationVSHESHis
conductingasignlanguageworkshopforCMRLemployeesandcongratulated
CMRLonthisprogressiveinitiative).
Alsoofconcernisthattheaudioinductionloopatthestaffedticketingcounter
forpassengersusinghearingaidsseemstohavebeenoverlooked.DRAis
providinginformationforinstallationofthesame.Aseventuallytheplanisto
beginsellingcardsatlocalstores,andtoeliminatetheneedfortemporary
passtokensandtheneedforpersonnelatcashcountersbyusingATVMs
Thesemachineswillalsobethereatpresentbutaccessibilityhasnotbeen
planned.Aworkaroundfortheselfserviceticketingmachinesaccessibilityis
Page 26 of 146
beingexploredasprocurementhasalreadytakenplacewithstandard
guidelinesfordesignandprocurementofthenextlot
DRApointedouttheneedforplannedsmartcardstohaveatactilemarking,
andsuggestedCMRLsaccessiblesmartphoneapp,WCAG2AAwebsiteand
socialmediapresencecouldlinkwiththeKoyambeducontrolroomlivefeedto
providealertsforpassengersplanning.(Forexample,incasealiftisunder
repair,awheelchairusercouldreceiveasubscribed/ondemandSMSalert
regardingdowntimeandrestorationsotheydonotmakeawastedjourneyand
canmakealternativeplans)
Anondemandbuttonneartheliftwithdemarcatedwaitingspaceclosebyfor
passengersrequiringstaffassistanceissimilarlybeingexplored,especially
withcentralisedcontrolroomlinkingforseamlessstarttoendjourneyservice
coordinationandefficientdeploymentofresources.
3. Travellingbycoach
Fromourunderstanding
Eachrakehas4cars.Whileeachcarhas4seatsreservedforPwDas
priorityseating,thereareprovisionsmadefor2wheelchairsperrakeonthe
firstandlastcarrespectively.Butthereisnobarcurrentlyonthenumberof
passengersonwheelchairswhocanenterthecari.e.noonewillstop5
wheelchairedpersonsfromenteringthevehicle.
Advancedtechnologyandsensorsareinplacetoensurethattheplatformand
theentrancetothetrainarealwaysinline.Justincasethereisanissue
whichleadstothenonalignmentoftheplatformandthetrainDRAhas
recommendedaportableboardingrampateachwheelchairaccesspoint.
Therewillbe2CCTVcamerasmonitoringentryandexittoensurethat
passengersalightandexitthetrainsafelyincasetheyneedtotakealittle
extratime.Emergencyrampsareinbuiltincaseofamajoremergency
evacuationtheseextendtogroundlevel,notmerelytheplatform.
Thereisalsoafoldablejumpseatineachcarwiththewheelchairspacewith
agrabbarontopofitthiswaspresumablymeantasatransferseat.There
isnoharnessfortheseatandthegrabbarbehindisinaccessibleforaseated
passenger.
Safety:Thereisabuttonlocatedwithinthetrainandwithinthereachof
wheelchairuserspersonsinthedesignatedareastoaskforalonghaltin
casethepersonfeelsthattheywilltakelongerthanthestandard30seconds
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toexitthetrain.Thereisalsoaonewaycommunicationdevicewherebya
passengercanspeaktothedriver,whocaninformthestationthatassistance
isrequiredforapassengerwhowishestodisembark,forexample.Thereis
alsoahelpline(18004251515)whichwillbecentrallyconnectedtothe
Koyambeducontrolroomofficeandwillrelayinformationtotherequired
stationmaster.TheentirerakeiscoveredbyCCTVcamerasforsafety
surveillance.
Withinthetraintherewillbeadynamicmapshowingjourneyoftrainand
highlightingnextstation,anaudioannouncement,andanLEDscreenateither
endofeachcar.Alightwillflashonthedoorwherethetrainwillopenupfor
exit.
Whilethesigns,alertsandannouncementshavebeenplannedonuniversaldesign
principles,thewheelchairpassengersseatrestrictionisamatterofconcerntoDRA.
Wheelchairspecificamenitiesseemtoberestrictedtothefoldingjumpseatswhich
willrequirethepassengertotransferfromtheirwheelchairtotheseatusingthe
grabrailontopoftheseatback,andstowtheirwheelchairintheslotprovided.The
problemsenvisagedwiththisareasfollows
Notallwheelchairsarefolding
Therearenograbrails/grabstrapsforseatedwheelchairusersecurity
Intheeventofasuddenjerkthewheelchairusermayfallandtheunfastened
wheelchairwillposeasafetyhazard
Theprocessoftransferringfromwheelchairtoseattakestime,agreatdealofeffort
andveryoftenassistant/escortsupport.AsfaraspossibleDRAadvocatesplanning
forindependenttravelbypassengerswithdisabilities.Forshorttransitsbythetimea
personstransferstoaseat,thedestinationwillhavebeenreached!
BRTSandsomecitybusesalreadyplyinIndiawithwheelchairtiedownsand
seatbeltrestraints.DRAwouldrecommendthisstronglyforpassengersafety
incoachesmeantforwheelchairs(evenifretrofittingisrequired)
4. Otherissuesdiscussed:
DRAsrequestforstation/trainviewingforauditandguidancepurposeswas
agreedtoinprinciple.AsitisunsafetodosocurrentlyCMRLsuggestedthis
couldbescheduledforafteracoupleofmonths.
OnDRAsqueryregardinganysubsidiesontravelforPwD/careattendants,
CMRLrespondedthatasanSPVsuchdecisionswerebeyonditspurview.It
wouldneedtobeexploredwithappropriateGovernmentauthorities.Similarly
regardingseamlesssyncingwithfeederbusesfromanaccessibility
perspective,CMRLinformedDRAthattransportintegrationwouldcomeunder
Page 28 of 146
thepurviewofCUMTA.
DRAqueryonhowthefigureof2wheelchairsspaceprovisionperrakewas
arrivedatasastandardneedstobeexploredbybothparties!
DRAguidanceonthefollowingwasrequestedbyCMRL
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
Wheelchairspecs(nonfolding,adultsize,institutionalmodelperstation)
Assistancebell
AudioInductionHearingLoop
Vendingmachineuserinterfaceaccessibility
Smartcarddesign
Portablerampperwheelchairaccessibleboarding/disembarkingpointforstaff
todeployincaseofpossiblegaprelatedhazard
Alertingsystem
Smartphoneappinputs&Websiteaccessibility
EmergencyevacuationprocessforPwD
Stafftrainingmanual&awarenessposters
Visualsreferenceforthesamefollowsbelowthiscanbestbepresentedinperson
I.
Wheelchair (non-folding, adult size, institutional) - BIS 6571 / 1991
Page 29 of 146
II.
Assistance bell
III.
Audio Induction Hearing Loop
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IV.
Vending machine user interface accessibility
V.
Smart card design
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VI.
Portable ramp per wheelchair boarding point in case of gap
VII.
Alerting system
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VIII.
Smartphone app inputs & Website accessibility
Page 34 of 146
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IX.
Emergency evacuation process for PwD
Page 38 of 146
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X.
Staff training manual & awareness posters
Page 41 of 146

Page 42 of 146
DISABLED PASSENGER METRO ORIENTATION HOW-TO GUIDE
[Representativepurposeonly.AwaitingCMRLpresentation]
Page 43 of 146
Page 44 of 146
Page 45 of 146
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TERMS & ACRONYMS
AFCAutomaticFareCollection
ATVMAutomatedticketvendingmachines
BRTSBusRapidTransitSystems
CMRLChennaiMetroRailLimited
CPWDCentralPublicWorksDepartment(GovernmentofIndia)
CUMTAChennaiUnifiedMetropolitanTransportAuthority
DRADisabilityRightsAlliance,India
GSFIGroundSurfaceFlooringIndicator
PwD/Personwithdisability/Peoplewithdisabilities
Rake:Anumberofrailwaycarriagesorwagonscoupledtogether(train)
SPVSpecialPurposeVehicleanentitywhichisformedforasingle,welldefinedandnarrow
purpose.
TransitWheelchair:Atransitwheelchairhas:
Fourpermanentlyattachedandlabeledsecurementpointsthatcanwithstandthe
forcesofa30mph,20gimpact.
Specificsecurementpointgeometrythatwillacceptasecurementstrapendfitting
hook.
Aclearpathoftravelthatallowsproperplacementofvehiclemountedoccupant
safetybeltsnexttotheskeletalpartsofthebody,
Anchorpointsforanoptionalwheelchairanchoredpelvicsafetybelt,thatisdesigned
towithstanda30mph,20gimpact,thathasastandardinterfaceonitthatallowsitto
connecttoavehicleanchoredshoulderbelt.
WCAGWebsiteContentAccessibilityGuidelines
Subway=Underground=Metro
Wagon=Carriage=Cars
Page 48 of 146
VISUAL GUIDE
ISA:InternationalSymbolOfAccessibility
Title:Provisionforthedisabledorpersonswithimpairments
Function/description:Toindicatethewayintoabuildingand
facilitiesthatareaccessibletoanduseablebyallpersonswhose
mobilityisrestricted,includingwheelchairusers.
(ISO7001:2007)0100
https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/#iso:grs:7000:4:0100
Title:Accessibility,routesandfacilitiesincludingtoiletswithfull
accessibility
Imagecontent:Sideviewofhumanfigureinwheelchair
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF006
https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/#iso:grs:7001:3:PI_PF_006
Title:Accessibilityforpeoplewithlimitedwalkingcapability
Imagecontent:Leaninghumanfigureviewedfromtheside,walking
frame.
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF006
Title:Accessibility,personalassistantavailableforpeoplewith
functionalimpairments
Imagecontent:Twohumanfiguresviewedfromtheside,holding
hands.
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF047
Title:Accessibility,visionimpaired.Specialprovisionsavailable
Imagecontent:Eyewithonediagonallinepassingthroughfrom
toprighttobottomleftandsixdiagonallines(alternatingblackand
white)coveringrightside.
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF049
Page 49 of 146

Title:Accessibility,blindorlowvision
Imagecontent:Humanfigureviewedfromtheside,walkingwithacane.
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF051
Title:Accessibility,assistancedogpermitted
Imagecontent:Sideviewofwalkinghumanfigureholdinglead,sideviewof
dogwithharness
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF046
Title:Accessibility,hardofhearing.Specialprovisionsavailable.
Imagecontent:Ear,brokenlinewithpointsateachend.
IISO7001:2007)PIPF046
Title:Slopeorrampedaccess
Imagecontent:Sideviewofwalkinghumanfigureandhumanfigurein
wheelchairgoingupslope
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF022
Title:Accessibleelevatororliftlocation
Imagecontent:Elevator/liftcageinshaftshowingpushbuttonswithhuman
figureinwheelchairandstandinghumanfigureincage."Up"arrowabove
cageand"down"arrowbelowcage
(ISO7001:2007)PIPF031
Title:Emergencyevacuationsafeassemblingareaforforpeoplewith
disabilitiestoawaitrescueassistance
Imagecontent:Humanfigureinwheelchair(profile),fourwhitearrows
comingfromthecornerspointingtoit
(ISO7010:2011)E204
https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/#iso:grs:7010:2:E024
Page 50 of 146
Information
Teletypewriter
Telephone with
volume control
Video, film, etc. is

closed captioned
Audio
description
available
Assistive
Listening system
available
Sign language
interpreted
Braille
Video, film, etc. is

open captioned
Large Print
WCAG compliance (Source http://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG2-Conformance)

A
AA
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(png, gif, svg, eps)
Page 51 of 146
CMRL COMMITMENT 2012 - Facilities Planned for Physically Challenged Persons in Chennai Metro Stations and Coaches
The facilities for Physically Challenged persons within the station will generally be provided based on Guidelines and space standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for
Disabled and Elderly Persons". Also, the design in general will be in accordance with "Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled and
Elderly Persons", Central Public Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs & Employment, 1998.
The following facilities are planned to be provided within the station for Physically Challenged Persons:
STATION
FEATURE
CPWD /
Other
Indian
Standards
In Metro Stations:
Pg 70-77
Signages within and outside the station to guide the persons.

1
Pg 43-45
Dedicated parking space subject to space availability.
Non slippery floors and well lit passages.
Convenient design of station structure for free movement.
BIS
ISO / IEC
VENDORS
DETAILS
ISO 23601:2009
(emergency)
Pg 25
Dedicated tactile tiles to access for the functional areas and platforms.
5
Pg 46-48
Bumpy tiles to alert customers who are blind or have low vision that they are nearing the
edge of the platform.
Accessible toilets.
pg 40-43
Ticket issuing window and Ticket Vending Machine counters with accessible heights.
Pg 49 , Pg
12. pg 74
8
9
ISO 23599:2012
ISO 23599:2012
Dedicated Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates.

Induction loops at ticket counters for hearing impaired passengers.
10
IEC 60118-4:2006
11
Simple and Uniform Terminal Design avoiding glossy surfaces/glasses.
12
Ramp as per standards and with handrail.
13
Adequate landing space at the start and end of every ramp.
14
Stair cases as per standards with handrails.
15
Steps with contrasting coloured nosing or anti skidding tiles at the edge of the steps will be
provided for easy access.
16
Adequate seating arrangement in platform
http://www.whe elchairs ma nufa cturers. com/ hearing-ai d-sy stem. html ! http://www.tradeindia. com/Seller-3093 58-A RPHI ELECT RONICS-PVT-LTD-/ ! http://strtechnologies.i n/products/bos ch-catalog.pdf !
Pg 25-29
Pg 37-38
Page 52 of 146
FEATURE
COACHES
CPWD /
Other
Indian
Standards
BIS
ISO / IEC
VENDORS
DETAILS
Coaches:
General
Dedicated Seating facilities in the train.
Easy access to the cars for persons with disabilities, including wheelchair users, shall be
provided through the side doors.
The rake shall be a high-floor design, with level boarding from platforms. Wheelchair and
mobility-impaired boarding shall not require the use of bridging or lifting devices. The
horizontal gap between the passenger door thresholds and platform edge at rest shall not
exceed 50 mm in nominal operating conditions, and 75 mm maximum. The maximum vertical
gap between the passenger door thresholds and platform edge shall not exceed 31 mm in
nominal operating conditions.
In no cases (including the worst operating conditions) shall the top surface of the
horizontal threshold of the car be lower than the top edge of the platform. The gap between
platform and the rail car enables wheelchair users to enter and exit the train safely.
4
At least two wheelchair parking areas shall be available in each driver car of the 4-car rakes.
5
Four seats shall be available for the elderly and handicapped passengers in all driver car ends.
6
7
Seats shall be provided for handicapped persons.
The designated areas for wheelchair parking shall be located adjacent to an accessible
entrance and shall be compliant with all ADA requirements.
Wheelchair users must be able to exit the car from any wheelchair parking position through
either of at least two accessible doors (on the same side of the train).
Wheelchair Egress Request
A wheelchair egress request signal shall be provided which shall permit a passenger in any car
of a train to alert the operator to stop the car for a prolonged time to enable wheelchair
passengers to exit the train. This system shall be ADA compliant and accessible to wheelchairseated passengers.
The stop request shall consist of the following and shall be inhibited when doors are open.
Stop-request strips shall be located at wheelchair accommodations.
An audible-non-repeating chime and alarm light shall be installed in each operators cab area.
Page 53 of 146
LIFTS
FEATURE
CPWD /
Other
Indian
Standards
In Lifts :
Pg 39
BIS
ISO / IEC
VENDORS
DETAILS
Lift in street level at convenient location and lift facility within the station.
Lift cars with required space and wide doors.
Audio announcement and Braille facilities within lift. Signs printed in Braille in the lifts to
indicate floors as well as visual/ audible announcements.
Grip rails on 3 walls inside the elevator car.
Elevator control buttons positioned at convenient heights.
OTHERS
OTHERS
Wheelchairs, folding, adult size
7454/1991
Wheelchairs, folding, junior size
8086/1991
Wheelchairs, non-folding, adult size, institutional model
6571/1991
Wheelchairs for use in vehicles as seats

Wheelchair tie-downs WTORS
Hearing loop system / performance of induction loop systems in any assistive listening
application
Alert
COMMON
AIS-017
########## ###### ####### ####### ###### ####### ####### ###### ####### ####### ###### ####### ####### ###### ####### #
ISO 717619:2008
ISO 105421:2012
IEC 60118-4:2006
Information technology -- W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0
ISO 8201:1987
ISO/IEC
40500:2012
Building construction -- Accessibility and usability of the built environment
ISO 21542:2011
Assistive products for blind and vision-impaired persons -- Tactile walking surface indicators
ISO 23599:2012
Assistive products for persons with vision impairments and persons with vision and hearing
impairments -- Acoustic and tactile signals for pedestrian traffic lights
ISO 23600:2007
Ergonomics -- Accessible design --Tactile dots and bars on consumer products
ISO 24503:2011
Ergonomics of Human System Interaction
ISO 9241:2006
Ergonomics of the physical environment -- Application of International Standards to people

with special requirements
ISO 28803:2012
http://www.indiamart. com/clas siccoa chbuilders/ products .html# school -bus |
Page 54 of 146
Disability Rights Alliance (Tamil Nadu) dra.tamilnadu@gmail.com Version dated 15-Feb-2012
ACCESSIBLE CHENNAI METRO

INFRASTRUCTURE CHECKLIST
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Helen Keller
Page 55 of 146
GENERAL
Parking
Obstacle-free route
Route identification
Doors and entrances
Floor surfaces
Toilets and baby-changing facilities
Furniture and free-standing devices
Ticketing, Information desks and Customer Assistance points
Lighting
Visual information: signposting, pictograms, dynamic information
Emergency exits, alarms
Geometry of footbridges and subways
Stairs
Handrails
Ramps, escalators, lifts, travelators
Platform height and offset
Track layout along the platforms
Platform width and edge of platform
End of platform
Boarding aids for passengers using wheelchairs
Ramps
Platform lifts
Level track crossing at stations
Operating rules
Maintenance rules
Professional qualifications
Health and safety conditions
Infrastructure register
GENERAL
Parking facilities for PRM
Doors and single level entrances
Floor surfaces
Tactile information
Guiding paths
Glass door and wall markings
Toilets
Furniture
Ticketing counter or vending machines/Information counters
Ticket control machines
Lighting
Visual information: signposting, pictograms, dynamic information
Spoken information
Stairs
Handrails
Platform heights and offsets
Platform widths and edges of platforms
Page 56 of 146
Ends of platforms
Boarding aids
Level track crossings
Additional rules to be followed as per
C.P.W.D. design guidelines published by the Ministry of Urban Development,

Planning a Barrier Free Environment published by the Office of the Chief Commissioner, Ministry of
Social Justice and Empowerment
Accessibility chapter in the National Building Code (2005) by the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Parking
Where a station specific parking area exists, there shall be parking spaces reserved for PRM eligible to utilise
disabled parking spaces at the nearest practicable position, within the parking area, to an accessible entrance.
Other specific requirements applying to parking spaces include, but are not limited to: the number of
spaces, access, location, dimensions, materials, colours, signing and lighting.
Obstacle-free route
An obstacle free route is a route that can be freely navigated by all categories of PRM. It may include ramps or
lifts where these are constructed. A minimum of one obstacle free route shall be provided that interconnects
the following points and services if provided:
Stopping points for other connecting modes of transport within the station confines (for example, taxi,
bus, metro, etc.);
Car parks
Accessible entrances and exits
Information desks
Other information systems
Ticketing facilities
Customer assistance
Waiting areas
Left luggage facilities;
Toilet facilities
Platforms
All obstacle-free routes, stairs, footbridges and subways, shall have a free width of a minimum of 1 600 mm,
with a minimum headroom of 2 300 mm over the entire width of 1 600 mm. The minimum width
requirement does not take into account additional width that may be required for passenger flows. This
requirement is not applicable to escalators, travelators and lifts.
The length of the obstacle-free routes shall be the shortest practical distance.
Obstacle-free routes floor surfaces shall have anti-reflecting properties.
Design shall incorporate provision for future installations of lift and/or ramps to ensure accessibility during
modifications.

Page 57 of 146
Route identification
Obstacle-free routes shall be clearly identified by visual information as detailed in appendix..
Information on the obstacle-free route shall be given to visually impaired people by a minimum of one of the
following means: e.g. tactile paths, audible, tactile signs, talking signs, Braille maps.
If a tactile path is installed it shall be provided along the full length of the obstacle-free route(s).
If there are handrails or walls within reach along the obstacle-free route to the platform, they shall have brief
information (for example platform-number or direction-information) in Braille and in prismatic-letters or
numbers at the rear of the handrail, or on the wall at a height between 850 mm and 1 000 mm. Numbers
and arrows are the only permissible tactile pictograms.
Doors and entrances

This clause applies to all doors and entrances that are on obstacle-free routes.
A minimum of one accessible entrance to the station, and one accessible entrance to the platforms shall be
provided.
Doors and entrances shall have a minimum clear opening width of 800 mm, free headroom of 2 100 mm.
It is permitted to use either manual, semi-automatic or automatic doors.
Door operating devices shall be available at a height of between 800 mm and 1 200 mm.
Manual, non-sliding doors shall be provided with horizontal push bars, extending across the full width of the
door, on both sides of the door.
Automatic and semi-automatic doors shall incorporate devices that prevent passengers becoming trapped
during operation of the doors.
If pushbuttons or other remote control devices are provided for operation of doors then each pushbutton or
device shall contrast with its surroundings and shall be operable by a force not greater than 15 Newtons.
If both open and closed pushbuttons are fitted one above the other, the top button shall always be the open
control.
The centre of the control shall be not less than 800 mm and not more than 1 200 mm vertically above floor
level.
Such controls shall be identifiable by touch (for example tactile markings) and shall indicate the functionality.
The force required to open or close a manual door, under wind-free conditions, shall not exceed 25 Newtons.
To latch or unlatch a manual door the handle shall be operable by the palm of the hand exerting a force not
exceeding 20 Newtons.
Where a revolving door is used, an additional non-revolving door shall be provided, that is freely available for
use, adjacent to the revolving door.
At doors and entrances thresholds shall not be higher than 25 mm. Where thresholds are installed, they shall
contrast in colour with the immediate background.
Floor surfaces
All floor surfaces shall be slip resistant in accordance with National Rules for public buildings.
Within the station buildings there shall be no irregularities in excess of 5 mm at any given point in floor
walking surface areas, except for tactile guiding paths, drainage channels and tactile warning indicators.
Transparent Obstacles
Transparent obstacles on or along the main routes used by passengers, consisting of glass doors or
transparent walls, shall be marked with at least two prominent bands made of signs, logos, emblems or
Page 58 of 146
decorative features at a height between 1 500 mm and 2 000 mm for one line, and between 850 mm and
1 050 mm for the other line. These markings shall contrast with the background against which they are
viewed. These markings shall be a minimum of 100 mm high.
These markings are not required along transparent walls if passengers are protected from impact by other
means for example, by handrails or continuous benches.
Toilets and baby-changing facilities

If toilets are provided at a station, then a minimum of one unisex cubicle shall be wheelchair accessible.
If toilets are provided at a station, baby-changing facilities shall be provided which are accessible to both men
and women. They shall comply with requirements of accessibility under Indian law for design and equipment.
In order to allow passengers with bulky luggage to use the toilets, the minimum dimensions of all toilet
cubicles shall be 900 mm wide and 1 700 mm length if the door opens inwards, and 1 500 mm length if the
door open outwards or is a sliding door. The door and all entrances to the toilet facilities shall have a
minimum clear width of 650 mm.
Baby-changing facilities
In the useable position, the changing facility shall be between 800 mm and 1 000 mm above floor level. It
shall be a minimum of 500 mm wide and 700 mm long.
It shall be designed to prevent a baby from inadvertently sliding off, shall have no sharp edges and shall be
able to take a minimum weight of 80 kg.
If the baby-change table protrudes into the accessible toilet space, it shall be possible to put it into the stowed
position using a force not exceeding 25 Newtons.
Furniture and free-standing devices

All items of furniture and free-standing devices at stations shall contrast with their background, and have
rounded edges.
Within the station confines, furniture and free-standing devices shall be positioned where they do not
obstruct blind or visually impaired people, and they shall be detectable by a blind person using a stick.
Cantilevered items fitted below a height of 2 100 mm, which protrude by more than 150 mm, shall be
indicated by an obstacle, at a maximum height of 300 mm, that can be detected by a blind person using a
stick.
There shall be no hanging elements below a height of 2 100 mm.
On each platform where passengers are allowed to wait for trains, and at every resting area, there shall be a
minimum of one weather-protected area fitted with ergonomic seating facilities. The seats shall be back
supported and at least one third provided with armrests. There shall also be a standing rest bar of at least
1 400 mm length and a space for a wheelchair.
Ticketing, Information desks and Customer

Assistance points
Where manual ticket sales counters, information desks and customer assistance points are provided along the
obstacle-free route, a minimum of one desk shall be a minimum of 650 mm to the underside of the desk,
have a knee well of a minimum of 300 mm deep and have a minimum width of 600 mm. The height of the
upper surface, or a part of it with a minimum width of 300 mm and a minimum depth of 200 mm, shall be
between 700 mm and 800 mm. This area shall be made available for wheelchair users and alternative seating
arrangements shall be provided for other PRM.
Page 59 of 146
If there is a glass barrier between the passenger and sales person at the ticket counter, this shall either be
removable or, if not removable, an intercom system shall be fitted. Any such glass barrier shall consist of clear
glass.
A minimum of one ticket sales position shall be fitted with the necessary equipment in order to enable a PRM
with hearing impairment to understand what is being said by switching their hearing assistance device to the
T position.
If electronic devices are fitted that displays pricing information to the sales person, such devices shall also be
fitted that display the price to the person purchasing the ticket.
Where ticket vending machines are provided on an obstacle free route at a station, a minimum of one of these
machines shall comply with accessibility requirements.
If ticket control machines are fitted, a minimum of one of the machines shall have a free passageway with a
minimum width of 800 mm and shall be able to accommodate a wheelchair up to 1 200 mm in length.
If turnstiles are used, there shall be a non-turnstile access point available for use by PRM at all operational
times.
The ticket vending machines to be provided on an obstacle free route at a station shall have the tactile contact
area (to include the keyboard, the payment and ticket vending areas) at a height of between 700 mm and 1
200 mm. A minimum of one display and the keyboard shall be visible by both someone sitting in a wheelchair
and by someone standing in front of the machine. If the display is the method of entering information then it
shall comply with the requirements of this paragraph.
Lighting
The station forecourt lighting shall be in accordance with National Rules.
From the accessible building entrance to the platform access point, the obstacle-free route shall be illuminated
to a minimum of 100 lux, measured at floor level, within the confines of the station building. The minimum
required light level on the main entrance, stairs, and at the end of ramps, shall be a minimum of 100 lux
measured at floor level. If artificial lighting is required to achieve this, the required lighting level shall be a
minimum of 40 lux above the ambient surrounding light levels, and have a colder colour temperature.
Platforms and other external station passenger areas shall have a minimum average illumination level of 20
lux measured at floor level, with a minimum value of 10 lux.
Where artificial lighting is required to allow detailed information to be read, these locations shall be
highlighted by lighting with a minimum 15 lux increase over that provided in adjacent areas. Such increased
lighting shall also have a different colour temperature to that in the adjacent areas.
Emergency lighting shall be in accordance with National Rules.
Visual information: signposting, pictograms,

dynamic information
Within a station all information shall be of a consistent nature and in accordance with national accessibility
guidelines.
Sans Serif fonts, in mixed case, shall be used for all written information. (i.e. not in capital letters only).
Compressed descenders and ascenders shall not be used.
Descenders shall be clearly recognisable and have a minimum size ratio of 20 % to the upper case characters.
All available information shall be coherent with the general routing and information system especially with
regards to colour and contrast in platforms and entrances
Visual information shall be legible in all lighting conditions when the station is operational.
Visual information shall contrast with its background.
Page 60 of 146
Where dynamic visual information is provided, it shall be consistent with essential spoken information that is
being given.
The following information shall be provided:
Safety Information and Safety Instructions in accordance with National Rules.
Warning, prohibition and mandatory actions signs in accordance with National Rules.
Information concerning the departure of train services.
Identification of station facilities, where provided, and access routes to those facilities.
Information shall be provided at all points where passengers need to make a route taking decision and at
intervals on the route at a maximum 100 m intervals. Signage, symbols and pictograms shall be applied
consistently over the whole route.
The appropriate level of information required to make the decision shall be provided. For example, To the
platforms may be appropriate at the first decision making point when entering the station, rather than
specific signs for individual platforms
Tactile information signage shall be fitted in:
Toilets, for functional information and emergency call if appropriate
Lifts in accordance with National Rules.
Advertisements shall not be combined with the routeing and information systems.
Note: General information about public transport services shall not be considered as advertisements for the
purposes of this Clause.
The following specific PRM graphic symbols and pictograms shall be fitted:
A sign conforming to the international symbol for the provision for the disabled or handicapped
persons as described in Annexure
Directional information for obstacle-free route and wheelchair accessible amenities
Indication of the universal toilets
If there is train configuration information on the platform, indication of the wheelchair boarding
location.
The symbols are permitted to be combined with other symbols (for example: lift, toilet, etc).
Where inductive loops are fitted these shall be indicated by a sign as described Annexure.
Where the facility is provided, a graphic symbol shall indicate a storage place for heavy luggage and bulky
goods.
If there is a call for assistance or call for information facility, these shall be indicated by a sign as described in
Annexure.
If there is an Emergency call device:
it shall have visual and tactile symbols,
it shall be indicated by a sign as described in Annexure and shall have:
A visual and audible indication that the device has been operated
Additional operating information if necessary
In universal toilets and in wheelchair accessible toilets, where hinged handrails are provided, a graphic symbol
showing the rail in both the upright and lowered position shall be provided.
There shall be no more than five pictograms, together with a directional arrow, indicating a single direction
placed adjacent to each other at a single location.
Displays shall be sized to show complete individual station names or words of messages. Each station name,
or words of messages, shall be displayed for a minimum of 2 seconds. If a scrolling display is used (either
horizontal or vertical), each complete word shall be displayed for a minimum of 2 seconds and the horizontal
scrolling speed shall not exceed 6 characters per second.
The minimum height of letters shall be calculated according to the following formula: Reading distance in
mm divided by 250 = font size (for example: 10 000 mm/250 = 40 mm).
All safety, warning, mandatory action and prohibition signs shall include pictograms and shall be designed
according to ISO 3864-1
Page 61 of 146
Spoken information
The spoken information shall have a minimum RASTI level of 0,5, in accordance with IEC 60268-16 part 16,
in all areas.
Where provided, spoken information shall be consistent with essential visual information that is being
displayed.
Where spoken information is not provided automatically, an audible communication system shall be
provided to allow users to get information upon request.

Emergency exits and alarms shall be in accordance with National Rules.

If footbridges or subways are used as part of the normal passenger walking route within the confines of the
station, these shall have an obstacle-free area of a minimum of 1 600 mm wide and a minimum headroom of
2 300 mm throughout. The minimum width requirement does not take into account additional width that
may be required for high passenger flows, these additional widths shall be in accordance with National Rules.
Stairs
Staircases shall comply with National Rules.
Staircases on the main route shall have a minimum obstacle-free width of 1 600 mm measured between the
handrails. The minimum width requirement does not take into account additional width that may be required
for passenger flows.
All stair tread surfaces shall have anti-slip properties.
Prior to the first ascending stair and also prior to the first descending stair there shall be a tactile band, over
the whole width of the stair. This band shall have a minimum depth of 400 mm, shall contrast with and be
integrated into the floor surface. This band shall differ to those used for the tactile guide path where installed.
Open areas beneath stairs shall be protected to prevent passengers from inadvertent collision with structural
supports and areas of reduced headroom.
Handrails
Stairs and ramps shall be provided with handrails on both sides and at two levels. The higher handrail shall be
positioned at between 850 mm and 1 000 mm above floor level, the lower handrail shall be positioned at a
height of between 500 mm and 750 mm above floor level.
There shall be a minimum clear space of 40 mm between the handrail and other parts of the structure other
than its mountings.
Handrails shall be continuous. When fitted on stairs they shall extend for a minimum of 300 mm beyond the
top and bottom steps (these extensions may be curved away in order to prevent obstructions).
The handrail shall be rounded and have a cross section of 30 mm to 50 mm equivalent diameter.
Handrails shall contrast with the surrounding wall colours.
Page 62 of 146

Ramps shall be installed for PRM unable to use stairs where lifts are not provided.
Ramps shall be in accordance with National Rules.
Where fitted, escalators shall have a maximum speed of 0,65 m/s and shall be designed in accordance with
National Rules.Where fitted, travelators shall have a maximum speed of 0,75 m/s, a maximum slope of 12
degrees (21,3 %), and shall be designed in accordance with National Rules.
Lifts shall be provided where ramps are not available and shall be designed in accordance with
National Rules.
Platform height and offset

- Depending on information supplied by CMRL-
Track layout along the platforms

- Depending on information supplied by CMRL-
Platform width and edge of platform

It is permitted for the width of the platform to be variable on the whole length of the platform. The
minimum width of the platform without obstacles shall be the greater of either:
the width of the danger area plus the width of two opposing freeways of 800 mm (1 600 mm) or,
For a single side platform 2 500 mm, or for an island platform 3 300 mm (this dimension may taper to
2 500 mm at the platform ends).
The minimum width requirement does not take into account additional width that may be required for
passenger flows.
It is permitted to have small obstacles of a length of less than 1 000 mm (for example:- masts, pylons, booths,
seats) inside this freeway of 1 600 mm. The distance from the edge of the platform to the obstacle shall be a
minimum of 1 600 mm and there shall be a minimum freeway of 800 mm from the edge of the obstacle to
the danger area.
If the distance between any two small obstacles is less than 2 400 mm they shall be deemed to form one large
obstacle.
The minimum distance from the edge of obstacles like walls, seating places, lifts and stairs that have a length
of more than 1 000 mm but less than 10 000 mm, and the edge of the danger zone, shall be 1 200 mm. The
distance between the edge of the platform and the edge of this obstacle shall be a minimum of 2 000 mm.
The minimum distance from the edges of obstacle like walls, seating places, travelators and stairs that have a
length of more than 10 000 mm, and the edge of the danger zone, shall be 1 600 mm. The distance between
the edge of the platform and the edge of this obstacle shall be a minimum of 2 400 mm.
Page 63 of 146
If there are auxiliary facilities on-board trains, or on the platform, to allow wheelchair users to board on or
alight from trains, a free space of 1 500 mm from the edge of the facility where the wheelchair boards, or
lands, at the platform level, to the next obstacle on the platform, or to the opposite danger area, shall be
provided where such facilities are likely to be used. A new station shall meet this requirement for all trains
that are planned to stop at the platform.
The danger area of a platform commences at the rail side edge of the platform and is defined as the area
where passengers may be subject to dangerous forces due to the slipstream effect of moving trains dependent
upon their speed. For the conventional rail system, this danger area shall be in accordance with National
Rules.
The boundary of the danger area, furthest from the rail side edge of the platform, shall be marked with visual
and tactile warnings. The tactile marking shall be in accordance with National Rules.
The visual warning shall be a colour contrasting, slip resistant, warning line with a minimum width of
100 mm.
The colour of the material at the rail side edge of the platform shall contrast with the darkness of the gap.
This material shall be slip resistant.
End of platform
The end of the platform shall have both visual and tactile markings.
Boarding aids for passengers using

wheelchairs
When a platform in a station that has obstacle free access routes in accordance with Rules is intended to
receive trains stopping in normal operation with wheelchair-compatible doorway, a boarding aid shall be
provided to be used between that doorway and the platform to allow a passenger in a wheelchair to board or
alight,
unless it is demonstrated that the gap between the edge of the door sill of that doorway and the edge of
the platform is not more than 75 mm measured horizontally and not more than 50 mm measured
vertically;
and
unless there is a station stop within 30 km, on the same route, provided with boarding aids.
Where boarding aids are situated at stations, they shall accommodate a wheelchair with characteristics as
detailed in National Rules:
The boarding aid shall withstand a weight of at least 300 kg, placed at the centre of the device distributed over
an area of 660 mm by 660 mm.
If the boarding device is power operated the boarding aid shall incorporate an emergency method of manual
operation should power fail.
If the wheelchair boarding position is predefined, the platform position(s) of the wheelchair accessible
doorway(s) may be marked with the international symbol for the provision for the disabled or handicapped
persons. Such signs shall be in accordance with Annexure specifications.
Page 64 of 146
Ramps
An access ramp, whether manual or semi-automatic, to be operated by a member of staff, shall be made
available whether stored on the station platform or on board.
The ramp shall fulfil the requirements of National Rules.
The ramp surface shall be slip resistant and shall have an effective clear width of a minimum of 760 mm.
Ramps shall have raised edges on both sides to prevent mobility aid wheels from slipping off.
The upstands at both ends of the ramp shall be bevelled and shall not be higher than 20 mm. They shall have
contrasting hazard warning bands.
The ramp slope shall have a maximum slope of 10,2 degrees (18 %).
When in use for boarding or alighting, the ramp shall be secured in use so that it is not subject to
displacement when loading or unloading.
A secure storage method shall be provided to ensure that ramps, including portable ramps, when stored do
not cause an obstruction to passengers.
Platform lifts
Where a platform lift is used, it shall comply with the following:
The lift platform surface shall be slip resistant. At surface level, the lift platform shall have a minimum clear
width of 720 mm.
Where provided, each control for deploying, lowering to ground level, raising and stowing the lift shall
require continuous manual pressure by the operator and shall not allow an improper lift sequencing when the
lift platform is occupied.
The lift shall incorporate an emergency method of deploying, lowering to ground level with a lift occupant,
and raising and stowing the empty lift if the power to the lift fails.
No part of the lift platform shall move at a rate exceeding 150 mm/second during lowering and lifting an
occupant, and shall not exceed 300 mm/second during deploying or stowing (except if the lift is manually
deployed or stowed). The maximum lift platform horizontal and vertical acceleration when occupied shall be
0,3 g.
The lift platform shall be equipped with barriers to prevent any of the wheels of a wheelchair from rolling off
the lift platform during its operation.
A movable barrier or inherent design feature shall prevent a wheelchair from rolling off the edge closest to
the vehicle until the lift is in its fully raised position.
Each side of the lift platform which extends beyond the vehicle in its raised position shall have a barrier a
minimum 25 mm high. Such barriers shall not interfere with manoeuvring into or out of the aisle.
The loading-edge barrier (outer barrier) which functions as a loading ramp when the lift is at ground level,
shall be sufficient when raised or closed, or a supplementary system shall be provided, to prevent a power
wheelchair from riding over or defeating it.
The lift shall permit both inboard and outboard facing of wheelchair.
A secure stowage system shall be provided to ensure that the stowed lift does not impinge on a passenger's
wheelchair or mobility aid or pose any hazard to passengers
Level track crossing at stations

If level track crossings are permitted to be used by passengers according to the National Rules, and required
to
provide the obstacle-free route, they shall be accessible to all categories of PRM.
They shall be designed so that the smallest wheel of a wheelchair, as defined in Annexure, cannot be trapped
Page 65 of 146
within the crossing surface and the rail.

Visual and tactile markings shall be provided to identify the boundaries of the crossing surface.
Operating rules
The following operating rules do not form any part of the assessment of Infrastructure.
The Infrastructure Manager or Station Manager shall have a written policy to ensure that all categories
of PRM can access the passenger Infrastructure at all operational times in accordance with the technical
norms specified.The policy shall be implemented through the provision of adequate information to staff,
procedures and training. The Infrastructure policy shall include, but not be limited to, operating rules for the
following situations:
Obstacle-free routes
When a new, renewed or upgraded stations (that have a daily passenger f low of 1 000 passengers or
less, combined embarking and disembarking, averaged over a 12 month period), does not meet
the requirements related to the lift and/or ramp aspects of the obstacle-free route requirements
according to National Rules, Metro Rail Authorities will organise for the transport of wheelchair
users by an accessible means between this non accessible station and the next accessible station on the
same route.
Station Accessibility
Operating rules shall be made to ensure that information regarding the level of accessibility of all
stations is freely available.
Unstaffed Stations Ticketing for Visually Impaired Passengers
Operating rules shall be written and implemented with respect to unstaffed stations where vending
machines are relied upon for ticketing. In such situations, an alternative means of ticketing, accessible to
visually impaired passengers, shall always be available. (For example, permitting purchasing either on the
train or at the destination)
Ticketing Control Turnstiles
In cases where turnstiles are utilised for ticketing control, operational rules shall be implemented,
whereby PRM are offered parallel access through such control points. This PRM access shall permit
wheelchair users, prams, bulky baggage, etc and may be controlled by staff or be automatic.
Visual and Spoken Information Achieving Consistency
Operating rules shall be implemented to ensure consistency between essential visual and spoken
information. Staff making announcements shall follow standard procedures to achieve complete consistency of
essential information.
On-demand Spoken Passenger Information System
In situations where essential spoken information is not provided via a public address system at a station,
operating rules shall be implemented to ensure the provision of an alternative information system, whereby
passengers are able to acquire the same information audibly at the station (e.g. a staffed or automated
telephone information service).
Platform Wheelchair Boarding Aid Operational Zone
The Railway Undertaking and the Infrastructure Manager or Station Manager shall define together the
area on the platform where the facility is likely to be used and shall demonstrate its validity. This area
shall be compatible with the existing platforms where the train is likely to stop.
A consequence of above is that the stopping point of the train shall in some cases be adjusted in order
to comply with this requirement.
Page 66 of 146
Operational rules shall be implemented to take account of train composition variations such that the stopping
point of trains can be determined with respect to the boarding aid operational zones.
A free space of 1 500 mm from the platform edge shall be provided on the platform for each boarding
aid.
Safety of Manual and Powered Wheelchair Boarding Aids
Operations rules shall be implemented concerning the operation of boarding aids by station staff.
An operational rule shall be implemented concerning the use by staff of the moveable safety barrier
fitted to wheelchair lifts.
Operational rules shall be implemented to ensure that staff are able to safely operate boarding ramps,
with respect to deployment, securing, raising, lowering and stowing.
Assistance to Wheelchair Users
Operational rules shall be implemented to ensure that staff are aware that wheelchair users may require
assistance to board and alight the train, and shall provide such assistance if required.
Supervised Level Track Crossing
Where National Rules permit supervised level track crossings, operating rules shall be implemented to
ensure that staff at supervised level track crossings give appropriate assistance to PRM, including
indication of when it is safe to cross the track.
Maintenance rules
The Infrastructure Manager or Station Manager shall have procedures that include the provision of alternative
assistance to PRM during maintenance, replacement or repair of facilities that are for PRM use.
Professional qualifications
The professional qualifications of staff required for the operation of the Infrastructure Subsystem are as
follows:
Professional training of staff performing the tasks of accompanying trains, delivering service and help for
passengers at a station and of selling tickets shall include the subject of disability awareness and equality,
including the specific needs of each category of PRM.
Professional training of engineers and managers, responsible for maintaining and operating the Infrastructure,
shall include the subject of disability awareness and equality, including the specific needs of each category of
PRM.
Health and safety conditions

-Awaiting Information from CMRL -
Infrastructure register
The requirements for the Infrastructure register are as follows:
For each station identified, the platforms at that station shall be
listed.
Page 67 of 146
For each station identified, the following features shall be listed and described as follows:
Parking facilities
Obstacle-free route(s)
Tactile guidepaths
Toilets, including those accessible to wheelchair users
Ticketing, information desks and customer assistance points
Visual information systems
Ramps, escalators, lifts or travelators fitted
The height, offset, width and length of each platform
Boarding aids and their description where provided
Level track crossings where these are available for use by PRM

Page 68 of 146
Disability Rights Alliance (Tamil Nadu) dra.tamilnadu@gmail.com Version dated

14-Feb-2012
ACCESSIBLE CHENNAI METRO

RAIL CAR CHECKLIST
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Helen
Keller
Page 69 of 146

14-Feb-2012
Identification
Each passenger rail car that can accommodate a wheelchair should be identified by the
international symbol of access placed on the outside of both sides of the passenger rail car by the
entrance.
Signage
Signage provided on a passenger rail car to aid passengers should satisfy the criteria set out
below.
(a) Signage should be positioned to avoid shadow areas and glare.
(b) Letters, numbers, symbols and pictographs should be glare-free and presented in contrasting
colours ("Contrasting colours" means a light colour on a dark background or a dark colour on a
light background,
with light on dark being preferable for signage.).
(c) Letters and numbers should be sans serif, and numbers should be Arabic. Letters and numbers
should have at least a width-to-height ratio between 3:5 and 1:1 and a stroke-width-to-height ratio
between
1:5 and 1:10.
(d) Each sign must include a tactile pictogram, raised lettering and braille text using one-piece zinc/
bronze metal signs with (screwholes / high-performance 3M adhesives) and chemical etching that
is durable and vandal-proof.. When tactile signage or markers are used, letters, numbers, symbols
and pictographs should be raised at least 0.8 mm and should be between 16 mm and 50 mm high.
If a tactile sign is mounted on a wall, its centre should be at a height of 1500 mm plus or minus 25
mm above the floor.
(e) When signage is supplemented with braille, it should be located at the bottom of the sign and
presented in English Standard Braille Grade - II / Bharati Braille in local language
(f) If electronic signage is used, letters, numbers, symbols and pictographs should be slowly
scrolled across the screen. Red letters on a black background should not be used.
Lighting
Lighting on a passenger rail car, except reading and other lighting under the control of a
passenger, should be directed and controlled so as not to create glare or shadows.
Lighting should not result in any sharp contrasts in intensity throughout a passenger rail car, but
should be used to accentuate stairs and their handrails or grab bars.
Stairs
Stairs on a passenger rail car should have uniform, closed riser heights and uniform tread depths,
and a first step up (a last step down) of a height that does not exceed the uniform riser height.The
tread surfaces of the stairs should be firm and non-slippery and should not create glare.
The top outer edge of each step should be marked by a contrasting colour strip that runs the full
Keller
Page 70 of 146

14-Feb-2012
width of the step and is readily apparent from both directions of travel.
Handrails or grab bars should be provided on both sides.
If structural limitations of a passenger rail car prevent any of the above criteria concerning uniform
heights and depths, first (last) step, handrails or grab bars from being satisfied, a rail carrier should
provide assistance, if requested, to a person with a disability in ascending and descending the
stairs.
In addition, if the criterion concerning the first (last) step cannot besatisfied, a rail carrier should
provide a step box. This step box should be sturdy and have a tread surface that is firm and nonslippery and does not create glare. It should also have its top outer edge marked by a contrasting
colour strip that runs the full width of the box and is readily apparent from
both directions of travel.
Handrails and Grab Bars

Handrails and grab bars on a passenger rail car should be sturdy and of a height and length that
permit use by a person in a wheelchair.
Handrails and grab bars should be rounded and free of any sharp or abrasive element. They
should have an exterior diameter and a clearance from the wall surface to which they are attached
that permit easy grasping.
They should not have any obstructions that could break a handhold.
Handrails and grab bars should be colour contrasted from their surrounding area or marked with a
contrasting colour strip that runs the full length of the handrail or grab bar.
Handrails and grab bars should also return to a wall or floor in a smooth curve.
Floors
Floor surfaces on and between passenger rail cars should be slip-resistant.
Glare from floor surfaces should be reduced as far as practicable.
If carpeting is used on a passenger rail car, it should be securely attached.
It should have a short pile and a firm underpad or no underpad at all.
Doorways
Rail cars should have doorways that are wide enough to permit a person in a personal wheelchair
to access the tie-down.
If structural limitations of an existing coach car with a wheelchair tie-down prevent this criterion
from being satisfied, the rail car should at least have doorways that are wide enough to permit a
person using an on-board wheelchair to access the car.
Emergency Window Exits

Emergency window exits on a passenger rail car should be clearly identified by a contrasting
colour strip around the perimeter of the window and a tactile sign.

Keller
Page 71 of 146

14-Feb-2012
Seats with Floor Space to Accommodate

a Service Animal
Each passenger rail car (other than a sleeping car) should have a number of passenger seats that
each provides enough floor space for a service animal ("Service animal" means an animal that
is required by a person with a disability for assistance and is certified, in writing, as having been
trained to assist a person with a disability by a professional service animal institution.) to lie down.
This seating should be designated by signage for use by persons with disabilities.
Tactile Seat Markers

Tactile markers to indicate row numbers should be placed on passenger aisle seats in coach cars.
If these seats can rotate, the tactile marker should be placed on both sides of the seat.
Armrests
At least 10 per cent of the aisle armrests on the passenger aisle seats in the car should be
movable. If possible, the passenger seats with movable aisle armrests should be evenly distributed
throughout that coach car. This seating should be designated by signage for use by
persons with disabilities.
Wheelchair Tie-down
Each passenger train should have at least one wheelchair tie-down.
This tie-down should be in a coach car that satisfies the accessibility criteria set out earlier.
The location of the wheelchair tie-down should permit easy access to the wheelchair-accessible
doorways and washroom if present.
Storage Space for Personal Wheelchairs

A passenger train with only one wheelchair tie-down should have priority
storage space on the train for one other personal wheelchair.
On-board Wheelchairs Provided by

Carriers
Each passenger train should be equipped at all times with at least one on-board wheelchair
provided by the rail carrier. The on-board wheelchair should have a design that permits easy
transfer of an occupant and easy manoeuvring of the chair with assistance in and between the
Keller
Page 72 of 146

14-Feb-2012
passenger rail cars. It should have footrests, armrests that are movable or removable, an occupant
restraint device and wheel locks.
Means to Communicate Announcements

If a rail carrier makes announcements to passengers, such as announcements concerning stops,
delays, schedule changes, connections, on-board services and claiming of baggage, the carrier
should have the means within the passenger rail car of visually and verbally providing these
announcements to persons with disabilities.
Alarms
If a passenger rail car is equipped with an alarm system, the system should be visual and
audible and, when activated, display continuously. Visual alarms should be placed, timed and
synchronised so as to avoid triggering seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy.
Public Liaison
Whenever a significant improvement is made to the accessibility of any passenger service in a rail
carrier's network, the carrier should prepare a statement to announce the change and should send
it to both print and electronic media, and to organizations of and for persons with disabilities in the
communities served by the train service.
Maintenance
Rail carriers should have procedures in place to ensure that all existing passenger rail car
accessibility features are maintained in good working order. These procedures should be updated
as new accessibility features are introduced and rechecked pre and post any other design
modifications.

Keller
Page 73 of 146
Source : April 2012 CMRL Newsletter Page 2 & 3 http://www/chennaimetrorail.gov.in/newsletter/April-2012.pdf
Facilities Planned for Physically Challenged Persons in

Chennai Metro Stations and Coaches
The facilities for Physically Challenged persons within the station will generally be provided based
on Guidelines and space standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled and
Elderly Persons". Also, the design in general will be in accordance with "Guidelines and Space
Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled and Elderly Persons", Central Public
Works Department, Ministry of Urban Affairs & Employment, 1998.
The following facilities are planned to be provided within the station for Physically Challenged
Persons:
The true
sign of
intelligence
is not
knowledge
but
imagination.
Albert
Einstein
Caption describing picture or graphic.
In Metro Stations:
* Signages within and outside the station to guide the persons.
In Lifts :
* Dedicated parking space subject to space availability.
*Lift in street level at conven* Non slippery floors and well lit passages.
ient location and lift facility
* Convenient design of station structure for free movement.
within the station.
* Dedicated tactile tiles to access for the functional areas and *Lift cars with required space
platforms.
and wide doors.
* Bumpy tiles to alert customers who are blind or have low
*Audio announcement and
vision that they are nearing the edge of the platform.
Braille facilities within lift. Signs
* Accessible toilets.
printed in Braille in the lifts to
* Ticket issuing window and Ticket Vending Machine count- indicate floors as well as visual/
ers with accessible heights.
audible announcements.
* Dedicated Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates.
*Grip rails on 3 walls inside the
* Induction loops at ticket counters for hearing impaired
elevator car.
passengers.
*Elevator control buttons posi* Simple and Uniform Terminal Design avoiding glossy surtioned at convenient heights.
faces/glasses.
* Ramp as per standards and with handrail.
* Adequate landing space at the start and end of every ramp.
* Stair cases as per standards with handrails.
* Steps with contrasting coloured nosing or anti skidding tiles at the edge of the steps will be provided for easy access.
* Adequate seating arrangement in platform
Coaches:
General
*Dedicated Seating facilities in the train.
*Easy access to the cars for persons with disabilities, including wheelchair users, shall be provided
through the side doors.
*The rake shall be a high-floor design, with level boarding from platforms. Wheelchair and mobility-impaired boarding shall not require the use of bridging or lifting devices. The horizontal gap
between the passenger door thresholds and platform edge at rest shall not exceed 50 mm in nominal operating conditions, and 75 mm maximum. The maximum vertical gap between the passenger door thresholds and platform edge shall not exceed 31 mm in nominal operating conditions.
In no cases (including the worst operating conditions) shall the top surface of the horizontal
threshold of the car be lower than the top edge of the platform. The gap between platform and
the rail car enables wheelchair users to enter and exit the train safely.
*At least two wheelchair parking areas shall be available in each driver car of the 4-car rakes.
Four seats shall be available for the elderly and handicapped passengers in all driver car ends.
Continued.
Page 2
Chennai Metro Rail Newsletter
Page 74 of 146
*Seats shall be provided for handicapped persons.

*The designated areas for wheelchair parking shall be located adjacent to an accessible entrance and
shall be compliant with all ADA requirements.
*Wheelchair users must be able to exit the car from any wheelchair parking position through either
of at least two accessible doors (on the same side of the train).
Wheelchair Egress Request
*A wheelchair egress request signal shall be provided which shall permit a passenger in any car of a
train to alert the operator to stop the car for a prolonged time to enable wheelchair passengers to
exit the train. This system shall be ADA compliant and accessible to wheelchair-seated passengers.
*The stop request shall consist of the following and shall be inhibited when doors are open.
Stop-request strips shall be located at wheelchair accommodations.
An audible-non-repeating chime and alarm light shall be installed in each operators cab area.
Progress of Depot work as on 30-4-2012

Viaduct pile cap work near
Koyambedu depot
Roof slab work in progress for admin

building at Koyambedu depot
Success is
the ability to
go from one
failure to
another with
no loss of
The progress of depot works as on 30-4-2012 is given below:

Sl. No.
Description
Unit
Total quantity
1
2
Cum
RMT
3,16,000
20,43,700
Cum
No.
4,22,354
229
2,04,121
229
No.
995
807
No.
116
90
Earth filling
Installation of Prefabricated Vertical Drain (PVD)
Surcharge filling
Admn
building
(work
pile)600mm
Piles for infrastructure shed,
stabling shed, rolling stock and
workshop 500 mm
Admn building & infrashed pile
cap
Viaduct and ramp area 1000 mm
No
63
63
Viaduct pile cap
No
19
3
4
5
6
Volume-II
Issue-4
Quantity executed
1,86,020
16,84,124
enthusiasm.
Winston
Churchill
Page 3
Page 75 of 146
DRA <-> CMRL ENGAGEMENT ON ACCESSIBILITY

6Feb2012
12Feb2012
15Feb2012
2March2012
DRAMEDIARELEASE26March2012
Meetingsheldtilldate:
DocumentsSubmittedtillDate:
DigitalInclusiondocuments
Railcaraccessibilitydraftguidelines
Metrostationaccessibilitydraftguidelines
Indianlaw/codeonbarrierfreeenvironments
DelhiMetroaccessaudits2010,2011,2012
AboutDisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)
26March2012
28Mar2012
25April2012
2Jan2013
7Aug2014
9Jun2015
22Jun2015
ALSTOM
1Jun2015
11Jun2015
6Feb2012
Forwardedmessage
From:
DisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)
<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>
Date:6February201214:40
Subject:CMRLDigitalInclusion
To:CMRLPRO<xxx.xxxx@xx.xxx.xx>
Cc:DluSouth<xxx.xxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>,
6Feb2012
Page 76 of 146
DearMr.Elanthiraiyan,
Thankyouforyouropennessandwillingnesstoincorporatefurtherinputsfrompeoplewith
disabilitiesintheMetroRailplanningprocessitself.Wearehappytohearthatallaccessibility
featuresoftheDelhiMetrowillbepresent,ifnotimprovedupon!
AsdiscussedinourmeetingthereismuchinterestintheuniversaldesignoftheChennaiMetro,
butunfortunatelyyourwebsiteiscurrentlyinaccessibledeprivingpeoplewithdisabilitiesthe
chancetotrackyourprogressandparticipateinthisprocess.
Whileinitialdocuments/stakeholderinputsforaccessiblityelementsinstationdesignand
rollingstockarebeingpreparedthisweek,we@DRAthoughtthiswouldbeagreatplaceto
start!
TheInternethasrevolutionisedthelivesofdisabledpersonsthroughouttheworld.Morethan
others,ithasenabledandliberatedtheminthemostcompletesenseofthewordsand
succeededinelevatinglevelsofindependence,competenceandconfidence.
Unfortunately,whiletheinternetcansolvemostoftheaccesstoinformationchallengesfaced
bydisabledpersons,thehurdlesintheformofnavigationorcomprehensionproblemsposeas
severebarrierstoplacingcompleterelianceonitasatoolformanagingonesworkand
academicpursuitsforvisuallyandprintdisabledpersons.Itisnotonlysadbutalso
disappointingtoseethat
inIndia
alotof
government&privatewebsitesareinaccessible
for
peoplewithvisualandreadingdisabilities,defeatingtheverypurposeofICTfordevelopment!
Indiaratifiedthe
UNConventionontheRightsofPersonswithDisabilities
inOctober2007.
AccordingtoArticle21oftheconvention"FreedomofExpressionandOpinion,andAccessto
Information"coverstheprovisionofpublicinformationtopersonswithdisabilitiesinaccessible
formatandappropriatetechnologies,encouragingprivateenterprisesprovidingservices,
includingviatheinternet,toenablesuchservicesinaccessibleandusableformats,and
likewiseformassmediaproviders.
UndertheCRPD,Indiaisrequiredtoimproveandmonitortheaccessibilityofitswebsites.
CourtsinIndiacanusebothThe
PersonswithDisabilities(EqualOpportunities,Protectionof
RightsandFullParticipation)Act,1995
aswellastheUNCRPDindiscriminationcases
involvingagenciesthatfailtodoanyreasonableeffortstomaketheirwebsiteaccessible.
Byadherenceto
webaccessibilitystandards
theseproblemscanbeavoided.
Tohelpbetterunderstandtheissue,weareenclosingafewdocumentsthatmentionsomeof
thefeatureswhichareproblematicforpersonswithdisabilities,andalsosuggestsomesimple
solutionswhichcanbeeasilyincorporatedbywebpagecreatorsrightfromtheverybeginning.
SampleaccessibilitytestsoftheCMRLwebsitearealsoattached.Doseetheresourcesatthe
Page 77 of 146
endofthisletteraswell.
IfCMRListobeanexampleofequalopportunityandequalaccessthiswillbebestshownby
itseffortstomakeitswebpresenceaccessibletoeveryoneincludingpersonswithdisabilities.
Welookforwardtoyourleadingthewayforotherstoembraceadigitalinclusionpolicy.
Thankingyou.
Withregards,
TeamDisabilityRightsAllianceTamilNadu
ForManagement
VideoonhowdisabledpeopleaccesstheWeb
Before&AfterDemoon'bad'websitevs'good'website
Forwebtechpersonnelonly
ForanIntro
http://webaim.org/intro/#principles
ForStandards,tools,guidesetc
AccessibilityW3C
http://www.w3.org/standards/webdesign/accessibility.html
IntroductiontoWebAccessibility
http://www.w3.org/WAI/intro/accessibility.php
DevelopingaWebAccessibilityBusinessCaseforYourOrganization
http://www.w3.org/WAI/bcase/Overview.html
HowPeoplewithDisabilitiesUsetheWeb
http://www.w3.org/WAI/intro/peopleuseweb.html
WebContentAccessibilityGuidelines(WCAG)Overview
http://www.w3.org/WAI/intro/wcag.php
"Alonewecandosolittletogetherwecandosomuch."HelenKeller
=====================================================================
Page 78 of 146
12Feb2012
Forwardedmessage
From:
DluSouth
<xxx.xxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject:SeekinganappointmentwithCGM,Constructions,CMRLON15thFebruary2012
Regarding
To:cgmc.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
Mr.Somasundaram,
ChiefGeneralManager,
Constructions
ChennaiMetroRailLimited
DearSir,
GreetingsfromDisabilityRightsAlliance,TamilNadu!
DisabilityRightsAlliance,TamilNadu(DRA,TN)isanAdvocacy
ConsortiumofActivistsandOrganisationsworkingforDisabledPeople
inTamilNadu.
Wewouldliketodiscussabouttheincorporationofaccessibility
featuresforDisabledPeopleintheMetrorailnetwork.
Wewouldalsoliketomakenoteofthefactthatanaccessiblerail
transportsystem,willnotonlyfacilitatethemobilityofdisabled
people,butwillalsohelptheentiresocietyincludingtheelderly
people,pregnantwomen,children,peoplewitharthritisandother
ailmentsandpersonscarryingluggagetocommuteeasilyandsafely.
UnitedNationsConventionontherightsofPersonswithDisabilities
mandatesalltransportsystemstobeuniversallydesignedand
accessibleforDisabledPeople.Indiabeingasignatoryandhaving
ratifiedtheConvention,itistimethatallsystemsareinlineswith
theUNConvention.
Therefore,weurgeyoutomaketheChennaiMetroRailwayTransport
systemaccessibleanduniversallydesigned.
Page 79 of 146

Wewouldliketodiscusswithyouthevariousaccessibilityfeatures
inthedesignofproducts,servicesandenvironmentswithrespectto
theMetroRailTransportsystem.
InthisregardwemetMr.Elanthiraiyan,PublicRelationsOfficer,
CMRLon6thFebruaryattheofficepremises.Weweredirectedtomeet
youandsubmitourrecommendationswithrespecttotheaccessibility
features(UniversalDesign)atalltheMRTSstationsthatarebeing
builtandtheoneswhichwouldbeused.
Weherebyseekanappointmentwithyouonthe15thofFebruary2012to
haveadetaileddialogueonthesame.
Inanticipationofanearlyandfavorablereply
Thankingyou
Withbestwishes
RajivRajan
VaishnaviJayakumar
Coordinator.DisabilityLegislationUnitSouth
CrossDisabilityActivist
VidyaSagar
&
&Member,DRA,TN
Member,DRA,TN
DhanasekarA
Smitha.S.S
AssociateCoordinator
Asst.Coordinator
DLUSouth,VidyaSagar
DluSouth,VidyaSagar
&
&
Member,DRA,TN
Member,DRA,TN
=====================================================================
15Feb2012
Page 80 of 146
Forwardedmessage
From:VaishnaviJayakumar<xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.info>
Subject:GuidelinesforIndianGovernmentWebsites
To:pro.c...@xx.xxx.xx
Cc:DluSouth<xxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>,VaishnaviJayakumar<
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx@yahoo.com>
DearMr.Elanthiraiyan
PFAthesinglereferencedocumentforwebsiteaccessibility.
Thankingyou.
Regards,
*TeamDisabilityRightsAllianceTamilNadu*
Guidelines_for_Government_websites.pdf
2181KDownload
=====================================================================
2March2012
Forwardedmessage
From:
DluSouth
Date:14March201210:37
Subject:appointmentregarding
To:mdcmrl2010@xxxxx.xxx
Cc:psmd.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
2ndMarch,2012
Mr.Rajaram,
ChairmanandManagingDirector
Page 81 of 146
GreetingsfromDRA!
Sir,
Disability Right Alliances is aconsortiumofNGOs,FederationsandIndividualActivists, working

towardstherightsofdisabledpeopleinTamilNadu.
We have met with the CGM constructions and the CGM Systems regarding accessibility for
disabled peopleinChennaiMetroRailService.Infurtherance,to thiswewouldliketomeet you
regarding the accessibility features as mentioned above. We request you to give us an
appointmentatyourearliestconvenience.
Thankingyou,
WithBestWishes,
A.DHANASEKAR
MemberDRA.
=====================================================================
DRAMEDIARELEASE26March2012
FromJanuary2012,Chennaisopen,crossdisabilitycollective,theDisabilityRightsAlliance
(TamilNadu)hasbeendialoguingwithChennaiMetroatvariouslevelstoensureaccessibility
featuresareplannedfromtheprojectdesignstageitself.
Whiletheinitialmeetingleftthegroupupbeat,itsoonbecameobviousthatdocumentswere
beingreceivedbutverylittlecommittedto.Interactionsrapidlydeterioratedfornoconceivable
reasontheDRAgroupwasaccusedofwantingtobesupermonitorswhenfurtherinformation
wassoughtsothatcustomizedspecificationscouldbeaddedbasedonarchitecturalplans.
Despiteexplainingthedesignforallapproachof
UniversalDesign
aCMRLrepresentative
categoricallystatedthatCMRLcannotcompromisetheprovisionsof99%ofthegeneral
populationfortheaccessof1%disabledpopulation.
OntheadviceofthePRO,additionalinputsonDelhiMetroshortcomingsweresubmittedtothe
MDinameetingtodaytoascertainconcretemeasurestakentowardsincorporatingaccessibility
inCMRLsrollout.
Page 82 of 146
DRAsrequests(asexpressedfromthestart)were
Progressupdateonrecommendationssubmittedsofar
Transparencyinsharinginformationtoenableaccurateinputswiththegroup,orthe
appointmentofanAccessibilityConsultanttoensurethesame.
Disclosuretothepubliconwhataccessibilityfeatureswillbepresent/possible,and
workaroundsuggestionsforwhatwillbeinaccessiblesothatthecommonpassenger
knowswhattoexpect.
EnabledisabledcitizensofthisStatetobeapprisedofCMRLprogressbymakingits
websitecompliantasperGIGW/WCAG2guidelines.
Ensureasfaraspossible,thefollowingaccessibilityfeaturesasbestpractice/
compliance:asoutlinedby
ACCESSFORALLBestPractices
Tactiletilesonallcommonpassageswithtactilewarningsforabruptchangeinheightornear
hazardousareasforvisuallyimpaired
Signsprintedinbrailleintheliftstoindicatefloorsaswellasvisual/audibleannouncements
Theticketcountermaximumheightlimittoberestrictedto800mmtobeaccessibletowheelchair
users.
Ticketcheckingmachineplacementshouldallowwheelchairuserpassageorthereshouldbe
somealternativeentry&exitforwheelchairusers.
Accessibletoilet
Stepswithcontrastcolourednosing
Barriersbetweenrailcarstoalertcustomerswhoareblindorhavelowvisionofthespace
betweentherailcarssotheydonotmistakethisspaceforthedoortotheinsideoftherailcar.
Bumpytilestoalertcustomerswhoareblindorhavelowvisionthattheyarenearingtheedgeof
theplatform
Inductionloopsatticketcountersforhearingimpairedpassengers
Elevatorcontrolbuttonswithbraillepositionedatheightsthatareaccessibletowheelchairusers
Griprailson3wallsoftheelevatorcar
ataheightbetween850900mm.
Widedoorsforlifts
Theliftdoormusthaveanidealwidthofatleast900mmandanidealsurface
areaof1800mmx1200mm
Adequatelylit,nonslipflooringwithrampsattheentranceofeverystation(maximumslope1:12)
Adequatelandingspaceatthestartandendofeveryramp
Simple,uniformterminaldesignavoidingglossysurfaces/glass,andstandardisedpictobraille
signageforpeoplewithcognitivedifficulty
Handrailsmustbeplacedatheightbetween850900mmonbothsidesofstaircase&ramp.
Theheightofthedrinkingwatertapshouldbeataheightlessthan900mm.
Gapbetweenplatformandrailcarshouldenableawheelchairuserorapersonwithamobility
devicetoenterandexitthetrainsafelyandindependentlyasfaraspossible.
Outofserviceelevatoralertsystem
Todaysmeetingwasincomparisonmorepleasantthantheearlierencounter.Mr.Rajaraman
advisedDRArepresentativestocomebackafteramonthforabriefingonwhataccess
featureshavealreadybeenincorporatedbyCMRLarchitects.Mr.Rajaramancommittedonthe
Page 83 of 146
following:websiteaccessibilityandapressstatementonaccessibilityfeaturesofCMRLina
monthstime.
IntheabsenceoffeaturesspecifictorailwayterminalvisitabilityinIndiasNational
BuildingCodeandgiventhatIndiahasratifiedtheUNConventiononRightsofPeople
WithDisabilities,itisDRAsgoaltoenablemulticroreprojectslikethis(withgeneral
consultantsfromacrosstheglobeandworldclassequipmentsuppliers)conformto
globalbestpractices.
Thiscallsforamoreholisticinterpretationofwhatwemeanbyenvironmentafterall
whatisenvironmentwithouttheprinciplesofinclusionandsustainability?
IndiasInvisibleMinority
Morethan70millionpeoplewithdisabilitiesinIndiaarehomeboundand
not
bychoicethey
simplycannotstepoutbecauseofaninaccessiblephysicalinfrastructureandtransportsystem.
Asaresultdisabledpeopleareforcedtobecompletelydependentontheirfamiliesandare
perceivedtobeaburdenonsociety.
Accessibleinfrastructurewillempowerdisabledpeoplebyhelpingtobringthemeducation,
employment,anddignity.Tobeactive,adisabledpersonshouldbeabletocommutebetween
home,workandotherdestinations.Providingabarrierfreeenvironmentfortheindependence,
convenienceandsafetyofallpeoplewithdisabilitiesiscriticaltointegratethemtotakean
activepartinsocietyandleadanormallife..
AccessibilityfortheDisabledDesignforaBarrierFreeEnvironment(AUNPUBLICATION)
We are all physically disabled

(1
)
at some time in our lives. A child, a person with a broken leg, a parent
with a pram, an elderly person, etc. are all disabled in one way or another. Those who remain healthy
and able-bodied all their lives are few. As far as the built-up environment is concerned, it is important
that it should be barrier-free and adapted to fulfill the needs of all people equally. As a matter of fact,
the needs of the disabled coincide with the needs of the majority, and all people are at ease with
them. As such, planning for the majority implies planning for people with varying abilities and
disabilities.
1)Itshouldbenotedthatahandicapisnotasynonymfordisability.Adisabilityreferstoaphysical,sensoryor
mentallimitationthatinterfereswithaperson'sabilitytomove,see,hearorlearn;ahandicapreferstoacondition
orbarrierimposedbytheenvironment,societyoroneself.Assuch,physicalobstructionsofthebuiltup
environmentconstituteahandicaptoadisabledperson.Forexample,astairwayisahandicaptoawheelchair
user.Ontheotherhand,feelingdifferentandinferiortootherpeopleconstitutesahandicapimposedbyoneself.
Meetingsheldtilldate:
1Feb2012InitialmeetingwithMr.Elanthiraiyan,PublicRelationsOfficer,subsequently
guidelinesforwebsiteaccessibilitysubmitted.
Page 84 of 146

14Feb2012MeetingwithMr.Carmelus,CGM(Systems)andsubmissionofdocumenton
rollingstockaccessibilityguidelines
15Feb2012MeetingwithMr.Somasundaram,CGM(Construction)andsubmissionof
documentonrailterminalaccessibilityfeatures.
26Mar2012MeetingwithMr.Rajaraman,MDonoverallaccessibilityassuranceand
submissionofcompletedocketofearlierdocuments/referencematerialaswellaspersonal
accountsofgapsinDelhiMetroaccessibilityinthelast3years.
DocumentsSubmittedtillDate:
DigitalInclusiondocuments
Railcaraccessibilitydraftguidelines
Metrostationaccessibilitydraftguidelines
Indianlaw/codeonbarrierfreeenvironments
DelhiMetroaccessaudits
2010
,
2011
,
2012
AboutDisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)
DisabilityRightsAllianceisanopencollectiveofindependent,communitybasedorganisations,
individualsandpeergroupsthatadvocatewithandforpeoplewithanydisability.
TheDisabilityRightsAlliancecoalitionpromotesanddefendsthehumanrightsandvalued
statusofpeoplewithdisabilitiesbysupportingandpromotingadvocacygroups,actionsand
initiatives.
PreviousinitiativesofDRAincludethecampaignforaccessibleelections,aconferencefor
railwayaccessibility,awarenessonthecensusquestionondisabilityetc
======================================================================
26March2012
Forwardedmessage
Page 85 of 146
From:DisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject:AccessibilityofChennaiMetroDisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)
To:md.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
chennaimetrorail@xxxxx.xxx
,
chairman.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
,
cgmc.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
,
cgms.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
,
cgmpr.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
,
cgmo.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
,CMRLPRO<xxx.xxxx@xx.xxx.xx>
Documentssubmittedin3meetingssofar(foryourreference)
1_CorrCMRL20120206_DigitalInclusion.pdf(application/pdf)262K
2_81664585AccessibilityInputsForChennaiMetroRail.pdf(application/pdf)587K
3_81664715RailCarAccessibilityIndia.pdf(application/pdf)339K
4_2011Shivani_Delhi_Metro__AccessAbility.pdf(application/pdf)34K
5_DelhiMetroAccessPress20101113.pdf(application/pdf)1183K
6_2012DelhiMetroAudit.pdf(application/pdf)2452K
7_WorldBankAccessForPwDIndia.pdf(application/pdf)70K
UrbanDevelopmentGuidelinesForBarrierFreeAccess.pdf(application/pdf)1357K
=====================================================================
28Mar2012
Forwardedmessage
From:DisabilityRightsAlliance(TamilNadu)<dra.tamiln...@xxxxx.xxx>
Subject:GIGW/WCAGcompliantwebsitesasrequested
To:pro.c...@xx.xxx.xx
Cc:accessiblechennaimetro<AccessibleChennaiMetro@xxxxxxxx.com>,
tn_disabilityright_fo...@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.co.in
DearMr.Elanthiraiyan,
PleasefindbelowsampleaccessiblewebsitesasrequestedtodaybyCMRL.
*GOVERNMENTRELATEDWEBSITES*
1.GIGW+WCAG2.0AAcertified
websites<http://web.guidelines.gov.in/compliantwebsites.php>
2.http://ayjnihh.nic.in/index.asp
3.http://ujs.uk.gov.in/pages/display/31accessibilitystatement
Page 86 of 146

*COMMERCIALWEBSITES*
1.ANDHRABANK<http://www.andhrabank.in/wcag/retailwcag.aspx>
2.SIDBI<http://www.sidbi.in/>
3.NASSCOM
FOUNDATION<http://www.nasscomfoundation.org/web_accessibility/index.html>
Thankingyou.
Regards,
*TeamDisabilityRightsAllianceTamilNadu*
=====================================================================
25April2012
Forwardedmessage
From:
DluSouth
Date:25April201212:07
Subject:SEEKINGAPPOINTMENT
To:mdcmrl2010@xxxxx.xxx
Cc:psmd.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
25thApril2012
Mr.Rajaram,
Chairman
a
ndManagingDirector
Sir,
GreetingsfromDRA,TN!
Asafollowupofourmeetingwithyouregardingaccessibilityfeatures/universaldesign
oftheChennaiMetroRailwearekeentomeetyouanytimeonorbeforeMondaythis
month.
Wehadmetyouonthe26thofMarch2012regardingthesameandyouhadassured
usthatyouwouldmeetupwiththeteamofarchitectsandothersconcernedandgiveus
Page 87 of 146
amuchclearerpictureonthestandardsfollowedintheconstructionofCMRL.Right
fromthefacilities,information,services,emergencyexits,accessatstationsandthe
coaches.
Weseekanappointmentwithyouonorbefore30thofthismonthorattheearliest.
Lookingforwardtoaquickreply
Regards
A.DhanaSekar
Member
DisabilityRightsAlliance,TamilNadu
=====================================================================
2Jan2013
OriginalMessage
Subject:ATTN:Mr.Rajaraman,MDCMRL
From:
sunder@xxxxxxxxxx
Date:Wed,January2,20136:01pm
To:
chennaimetrorail@xxxxx.xxx
secyexpr@xx.xxx.xx
DearMr.Rajaraman,
IbelieveMr.Krishnanhasspokentoyouaboutmywantingtogetintouch
withyouregardingtheconcernsthatmanyofushaveregardingthestate
ofaccessibilityoftheslevatedstationsofCMRLvisavispeoplewith
disabilities.
Aspreliminaryspadework,afriendandIandIwentto
tryandseethestationatCMBT.Itappearsthatthestationislikelyto
becomeoperationalonlyaroundSeptember.Weaskedthepeopleatthesite
ifwe
couldlookatthedrawingsandcheckoutsuchdetailsasdimensionsof
elevators,toiletsforthedisabled,gradientsoframps,etc.
Unfortunately,thedrawingswecouldseedidnothavemanyofthese
details.Iwonderifitwillbepossibleforyoutosendusanecopyof
Page 88 of 146
thelatestdrawings,completewithalldetails.Infact,somedetailssuchas
dimensionsandspecificationsrightdowntoflooringslipresistance,
lightinglumensetc,wouldbeappreciated.
I,formypart,wouldliketomaketwospecificrequests/recommendations:
(i)Can'tyoupleaseappointanAccessibilityconsultant(suchasShivani
Gupta
ofAccessAbulity,whoisherselfwheelchairbound,inwhosecompetence/
sensitivityalmosteverydisabledpersonwouldhavetotalconfidence)to
ensure
thatourvariousconcernswillbesafeguarded?
(ii)orif(i)isnotfeasibleforsomereason,canyoupleaseprovideus
withanitemisedlistofhowthevariousissuesdiscussedintheattachment
AccessibilityInputsForChennaiMetroRail.pdfhavebeenaddressedbyCMRL?
Lookingforwardtoyoursympatheticandearlyresponse,
Withregards,
Sunder
============================================================
V.S.SunderTheInstituteofMathematicalSciences
email:
sunder@xxxx.xxx.xx
============================================================
7Aug2014
Forwardedmessage
From:
DisabilityRightsAlliance(DRA)
Date:7August201421:40
Subject:Followupon4thJulymeetingonChennaiMetroaccessibility
To:
drse.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
Apologiesforthedelayingettingthistoyousomeresearchtookalotoftime.
Withoutmuchado,hereistheminutesandfollowupdocumentwiththeinformationyouhadrequired.
ThefollowingarerepresentativeonlyThetrainingmanualisawaitingpermissionforadaptationfrom
NationalTrust,andtheDisabledPassengerGuideawaitsthepresentationmadebyCMRLatthemeeting.
Bothwillbesubmittedassoonaswereceivethesame.
Page 89 of 146
Thestandardsandpurchasespecsmatrixisattheendofthedocument.Pleasedonothesitatetoaskfor
moreinformationifneeded.
Thevisualreferenceguidehasmadethedocumenttoolargetoemail,hencethisversionisalowresone.
Thehighresoriginalcanbeviewed(andzoomed)onlineat
http://goo.gl/uBvStc
Welookforwardtohearingfromyou,
Sincerely.
TeamDRA
9Jun2015
Forwardedmessage
From:
VaishnaviJayakumar(InclusiveIndia)
<xxxxxxxxx.xxxxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.xxxx>
Date:Tue,Jun9,2015at1:07PM
Subject:Fwd:[DRA]RegardingAppointmentforaMeetingConcerningAccessibilityprogress
To:"L.NarasimPrasad"CMRLDRSE<xxxx.xxxx@xx.xxx.xx>,dra<xxx@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
Cc:"pro.cmrl"<CMRLPRO<xxx.xxxx@xx.xxx.xx>>,DisabilityRightsAlliance
<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>,DisabilityRightsAllianceIndia<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>
SomemembersofDRAhaddroppedinrecentlyafterameetingatAlstomtofollowuponour
meetingof
July2014onCMRLaccessibility
.Youwereawayatafuneral(weweresadtonote
thatanimportantmemberofthatverysamemeetinghadpassedaway).
Pleaseletusknowwhenwecouldmeetattheearliesttoaddresssomeurgentconcerns,
assessprogressandfixdatesfortrials,auditsand(whatseemsalmostcertain,unfortunately)
workarounds.Ourlast2emailsonthisandalliedmattershavegoneunanswered.
Sincerely,
VaishnaviJayakumar
Page 90 of 146
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
http://about.me/vjayakumar
Forwardedmessage
From:
DisabilityRightsAlliance(DRA)INDIA
Date:Wed,Jun3,2015at12:37PM
Subject:[DRA]RegardingAppointmentforaMeetingConcerningAccessibleSignagein
RailwayCoaches
To:
gmo.cmrl@xx.xxx.xx
Cc:dra<xxx@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>
To
TheGM(Operations)
CMRL
DearSir
Sub:RegardingAppointmentforaMeetingConcerningAccessibleSignageinRailwayCoaches
GreetingsfromDRAI!
DisabilityRightsAllianceIndia(DRAI)isacollectiveofcrossdisabilityactiviststhatworktowardsan
inclusivesocietyandensuringtherightsofallpersonswithdisabilities.
Withreferencetothesubjectabove,werequestthefixingofanappointmentwithyouforameeting.This
meetingregardsaccessiblesignagesinrailwaycoaches.Thesignagesinallrailwaycoachesneedtobe
accessibletoallpersonswithdisabilitiesso.Itisforthisreasonthatwewouldliketomeetwithyouand
discusshowwecantakethisforward.
Werequestyoutoletusknowofyourconvenientdateandtimeattheearliest.
ForthispurposeyoucancontactmembersofDRAI
AmbaSalelkar+91XXXXXX
RajivRajan+91xxxxxxxxx
Thankingyou,inanticipationofyourcooperation,
Sincerely
DRATeam
22Jun2015
Forwardedmessage
From:
DisabilityRightsAlliance(DRA)INDIA
Page 91 of 146
Date:22June2015at10:52
Subject:UpdatessoughtandagendaforCMRLAccessibilitymeet24thJune2015Fwd:Followupon4th
JulymeetingonChennaiMetroaccessibility
To:narasimprasad
Cc:mdcmrl
Welookforwardtomeetingyouwithteamtodiscusstheprogressmadefromourlastmeetingon
7July2014onaccessibilityprovisionsofChennaiMetro.
Theattacheddocument(OnourwayAccessibilitychecklist)iffilledinadvancewillhelpuskeepthe
meetingtimelyandontrack.
Theagendawillbeasfollows
1)Fixingofdatefor360degreeaccessauditandmapping(stationwise,trainwise,communication
etc)
2)AudiovisualpresentationofchecklistelementsbyCMRL
3)Accessibilitychecklistwalkthrough
CommunicationElements 3.1
3.1.1FacetoFace
3.1.2ElectronicCommunication
3.1.3Telecommunications
3.1.4PrintMaterial
3.1.5SignageandWayfinding
Facilities 3.2
3.2.1DoorsandDoorways
3.2.2Washrooms
3.2.3ExteriorPaths
3.2.4InteriorPaths
3.2.5RampsandStairs
3.2.6Elevators
3.2.7Escalators
3.2.8RestAreas
PaymentSystems 3.3
3.3.1FareSystem
AutomobileConnections 3.4
3.4.1Parking
3.4.2PassengerPickUp/DropOff
TransitStopDesign
3.5
3.5.1TransitStopPole
3.5.2PassengerArea
3.5.3TransitShelter
Fleet
3.6
3.6.1InTransitInformation
3.6.2GeneralVehicleFeatures
3.6.3Seating
Page 92 of 146
3.6.4StopRequestsandEmergencyControls
SafetyandSecurity
3.7
3.7.1GeneralFeatures
3.7.2InclementWeatherandServiceDisruptions
4)Planningtrialrunwithdisabledpassengersandshootingof'HowtouseChennaiMetroservices'
Accessiblevideoguide.
5)Anyothermatters/concerns
6)Partywiseactionabledeadlines
ThefollowingdocumentssubmittedearlierbyDRAcouldbereferenced
ChennaiMetroRailAccessibility2014MeetingPOAvisualguide
:(Especiallypages15,2730)
InfrastructureInputsAccessibleChennaiMetroFeb2012
RailcaraccessibilityChennaiMetroFeb2012
CMRLAccessiblefacilities&featurescommitmentmade2012April
Welookforwardtoaproductivemeeting.
Thankingyou,
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
OnbehalfofTEAMDRA
ALSTOM
1Jun2015
Forwardedmessage
From:
Date:Mon,Jun1,2015at2:14PM
Subject:CMRLsignagecolourcontrastFAIL?
To:dra<xxx@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>,accessiblechennaimetro
<AccessibleChennaiMetro@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.com>
Folks,
Page 93 of 146
WhenresearchingtheAskforAssistancebuttonsymbol,IstumbleduponthisCMRL
signage
guidancedocument
preparedbyTataElxsiandamuncertainthatthecolourcontrastelements
forsignagewillbeclearforpeoplewithnormalvision,leavealonelowvision.
ConvertedPantone/RAL
coloursreferencedonpage11ofdocumentintoHEXformatand
checkeditontheWebaim
colourcontrastcheckertool
andquiteafewoftherecommended
palettesfailevenforlargetext.
WebAimadmittedlyusesWCAGguidelineswhichmaynotbetotallyappropriateforreallife
signage,butevenacursorylookleavesonefeelingthatthecontrastcouldhavebeen
enhanced.
Iamsomewhatmiffedthattheseconsultantswhoarebeingpaidpresumablyarenotlooking
intoaccessibilityissuesaswell.Ifanyoneshouldberesearchingallthisitshouldbethemwith
DRAobligingwithcounterchecking/testing.
WhatdowedonowIthinkit'stimeforanofficialmeetingwiththeCMRLteam.
Page 94 of 146
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
OnFri,May29,2015at3:58PM,EqualsCPSJ<
equalscpsj@xxxxx.xxx
>wrote:
DearVaishnavi,
Ithinkthethereshouldbesomepictorialrepresentationfor"Askforassistance/help"(AAC)
Vaish,intherealtimeexampleyouhavegivenapicturethatsays"askforhelp".Inthegiven
case,thebuttonisprovidedtoseektheattentionofthedriver.Sothebuttonshouldalsohavea
messageastowhatsortofsupport.Thishasalsotobeannouncedalongwithother
announcementsinsidethetrainsothatpeoplewithVisualImpairmentwillunderstandthe
existingsupport.(Thishastobeworkedoutwithagenciesthatwillbeworkingonsettingup
audioinfoinsidethetrain).
Thanks
Meenakshi
for
Equals,CentreforPromotionofSocialJustice
Chennai,TamilNadu.
Contact+91xxxxxxxxxxx
www.equalscpsj.org
On29May2015at12:27,VaishnaviJayakumar(InclusiveIndia)
<xxxxxxxxx.xxxxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.xxxx>wrote:
ThanksforinputsAnjlee,ShankarandDhana.
Interimsuggestion:Symbolwisethispersonofindeterminategenderpressingintercom
buttonwithmouthopenedwouldseemmostuniversal.ForclaritysakeIwouldaddthesound
wavearcstodenotecommunicationexceptthatitwouldexcludedeaf.Thistobetransparent
againstsafetycolourbeingutilisedthroughoutwithenoughrelief.Wouldalsosuggesta
photoluminousoutlineofsameinreliefgoingbyShankar'ssuggestion.
Buttontoberecessedsonoaccidentalpressing,pictogramtobesupplantedwithtext.
TactileaudiblevisualfeedbackonactionwouldbeusefullikeDhanahassaid.
Page 95 of 146
Anjlee,thebluegreeninfire/smokescenariomakesperfectsensecouldyoupointmeto
anystandardthatwecouldquote?
Havealwayswonderedadditionallywhatapersonwithredgreenblindnesswoulddo.
OtherwiseIwouldbetemptedtoretainthecolournorm
red
forstop,prohibited,danger,alert,
emergency,
green
forGoahead/safe
Amunabletoresearchthevariousstandards,thoughIstronglyrecommendweuseISO/DOT
/AIGAoptionswhereveravailableforthesakeofuniversaldesign.
Ambatheywouldneedtogetdrawoutavectorversionofthisafresh.Can'tfindoneonline.
Haveattachedthetransparentversion.
Belowaresomerealworldexamples.
Toreiterate:unlesswehaveanideaofthetypeofequipmentandthepurposeofthis
featureitwouldbeimpossibletoadvisefurther.
Page 96 of 146
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
OnThu,May28,2015at9:47PM,DhanaSekar<
pardevdhapon@xxxxx.xxx
>wrote:
Addingtothatachangeofcolourtoo.
Dhana
On28May201521:07,"ShankarSubbiahS"<
shankar@xxxxxxxxxxxx.xx
>wrote:
Vaishnavi,doesthesecondonewithFirenotgiveawrongguidancethatonlyonfiredothat.
ProbablythefirstonewithbackgroundcolourredandlettersinWhiteorFlourescentyellow.
OftheBraillesignandbuttonnotabove1.2mfromcoachstandingbaselevel.And,asound
onclickingtounderstandthatithasbeenrightlyclicked.
Withbestregards,
Shankar
OnThu,May28,2015at2:40PM,VaishnaviJayakumar(InclusiveIndia)
<xxxxxxxxx.xxxxxxxxx@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx.xxxx>wrote:
Page 97 of 146
Shivani/Anjlee
whatsign/symboldoesDelhiMetrouseforthiscommunicatewithdriver
button?
Amba,
havealready
giventhem
ISOreferencedcodesforsymbols.Letmedigoutthis
specificone.
Wouldfirstneedtoknowwhetherbuttonisforordinaryassistanceorforemergency
becauseitwouldbecolouredaccordingly.Alsowhichofthefollowingthebuttonwouldbe
linkedto:
1. audio1way,
2. audio2way,
3. audiovisual1way
4. audiovisual2way
WhatlanguagearetheyusingforBraillebtw?
Braillesignageagainhastocomeatastandardisedlocationandheightsoblindpeople
donthavetofeelallovertheplace.
Thisiswhatwe'dsentfordisabilityassistancebuttons:
Sowouldtheybelookingatanadditionalwarningonnottalkingtodriverexceptwhen
emergency
http://villagehiker.com/travel/traveljapan/media/trainetiquette/pleasedonotspeaktojapan
esetrainsdrivers.jpg
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
OnThu,May28,2015at11:50AM,AmbaSalelkar<
amba.salelkar@xxxxx.xxx
>wrote:
Hi,
Page 98 of 146
JustgotacallfromsomeonefromChennaiMetroRaillookingforasymboltouseonthe
buttonwhichwillbeavailabletotalktothedriverofthetrainineachcompartment.Itwillbe
a"pushtotalk"kindofsymbol.
AnyonecreativeenoughtocomeupwithasymbolIcanforwardtohim?Therewillbea
braillesurfaceofcoursebutsomeideasintermsofwhatsymbol(easytounderstand,
visibletothosewithlowvision)arewelcome.
Amba.
11Jun2015
Forwardedmessage
From:
Date:Thu,Jun11,2015at8:31PM
Subject:Re:[DRA]Fwd:PEIandLongstoprequest
To:harigopal.mv@xxxxxxxxx.alstom.xxx,pirabhu.rajangam@xxxxxxxxx.alstom.xxx
Cc:dra<xxx@xxxxxxxxxxx.xxx>,DisabilityRightsAlliance<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>,
DisabilityRightsAllianceIndia<xxxxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx>
DearfriendsinAlstom,
WhereveravailableISO/DOTstandardsforiconshavebeenused.IfnotavailableunderISO/DOT,then
familiar,opensourcegraphicshavebeenpreferred.
E004
E008
0100
ColourcodingsimilarlyisbasedonISO7010guidelinesasfaraspossible.Whereverothercoloursare
used,theyarerestrictedtosafetycolours(ANSIsafetycolours
NOT
websafecolours)likesafetyorange,
safetyyellowetc.
Page 99 of 146
Thecontrast/colourblindtestshavenotbeenappliedastherearetoomanyvariablesthatweareunaware
of,sothatwouldneedtobetestedprofessionally
accordingtothelinkedcolourandluminouscontrast
guidelines
.
Therearebyandlargetoomanyquestionsunanswered(seebelow).sothiswillhavetodofornow:
Hi,thisisVaishnaviagainfromDRA.2morequeries:a)Willconversationwithtraindriverbealso
availableatCMRLcontrolroom?Willitberecorded?b)Willemergencybuttonhavebrailleortactile
surface?Ifnotalreadythere,canitbeputnow?
Alsowhichpartofstickerwillphotoluminescentyellowbe
usedvsRALyellow?Plsemailmeat
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxi@xxxxx.xxx
Jun0811:54am
ThePEIisespeciallyconfusing(amanualwouldhavehelpedastherearetoomanyoptionswhich
cannotbechangedatthisdate.Thefirealarmparthasthereforebeenvisuallydistinguishedfromthecalling
part.Whetherthatwillhelpinpreventingconfusedcallers,isquestionable.
Additionallyaspointedoutbelowtheabsenceofaudiofeedbackandiconembossingforvisuallyimpaired,
(aswellastactilefeedbackandvideofordeafblind)posesaninsurmountablechallengeatthisstageof
production.AsdoestheabsenceofTTYandAFILfeaturesforhearingimpaired.Wewillhavetoprovidean
accessibleHowToguideonlinewithvideo,picturesandlocationcoordinatesandhopeforthebest.You
wouldnoticethatasfaraspossibleinstructionshavebeensimplifiedandmadeabilityneutralto
compensatefortheinherentinaccessibility.
From:
kraguram
<
raghxxxxxxxxxx@xxxxx.xxx
>
Date:Mon,Jun8,2015at12:08PM
Subject:[DRA]Thoughtsregardingbuttonsinmetrorail
theButtonshouldbeaudioenabled
Page 100 of 146
tomyknowledgethetelecombuttontospeakwiththedriverisnotVIaccessible

TheinstructionsshouldbebothinaudioandBraille.

Especially,theprocessofthebuttonsshouldbeaudioenabled

Allthebuttonsshouldbereachabletonormalheightanditshouldbeinstandardise
locationinallthecompartments

ifthe2buttonsindifferentshapessuchasonesquareandtheotherrectangle,itwould
beeasytounderstandaswetouch
regards
raghu
Page 101 of 146
Page 102 of 146

Page 103 of 146
Regards,
VaishnaviJayakumar
Forwardedmessage
From:
MVHarigopal
<>
Subject:PEIandLongstoprequest
To:"
"<
>
Cc:RAJANGAMPirabhu<>
VAISHNAVIJAYAKUMAR
OnWed,Jun3,2015at1:11PM,AmbaSalelkar<
>wrote:
ThisistherequirementfromtheMetrocontractorsatAlstom.
Forwardedmessage
From:
MVHarigopal
<
harigopal.mv@xxxxxxxxx.alstom.xxx
>
Subject:PEIandLongstoprequest
To:"
"<
>
Cc:RAJANGAMPirabhu<
pirabhu.rajangam@xxxxxxxxx.alstom.xxx
>
DearMam:
Asdiscussedwithyourteamtodaypleasefindtheattachedtwodrawings.
PleaseprovideuswiththedetailsofPushtotalksymbolforimplementationinthetrain.
Page 104 of 146
InthenewdrawingaboveweneedPushtotalksymbolforimplementingintrains.
Thanksforyoursupport
Thanks&Regards,.
M.V.HARIGOPAL
ProjectCoordinator
AlstomTransportRollingStock
Mob:+91xxxxxxxxxxxx
Page 105 of 146
Transit System
Accessibility Checklist
[This checklist is designed to help transit agencies assess the accessible features
of their transit system]
Page 106 of 146
Table of Contents
1. Purpose ...................................................................................... 1
2. How to Use the Checklist ............................................................ 3
3. Transit System Accessibility Checklist ......................................... 4
3.1 Communication Elements......................................................... 4
3.1.1 Face-to-Face ........................................................................ 4
3.1.2 Electronic Communication .................................................... 5
3.1.3 Telecommunications ............................................................. 6
3.1.4 Print Material ........................................................................ 7
3.1.5 Signage and Wayfinding ....................................................... 7
3.2 Facilities ................................................................................... 9
3.2.1 Doors and Doorways ............................................................ 9
3.2.2 Washrooms ........................................................................ 10
3.2.3 Exterior Paths ..................................................................... 11
3.2.4 Interior Paths ...................................................................... 12
3.2.5 Ramps and Stairs ............................................................... 13
3.2.6 Elevators ............................................................................ 14
3.2.7 Escalators........................................................................... 15
3.2.8 Rest Areas .......................................................................... 16
3.3 Payment Systems .................................................................. 17
3.3.1 Fare System ....................................................................... 17
3.4 Automobile Connections......................................................... 18
3.4.1 Parking ............................................................................... 18
3.4.2 Passenger Pick Up/Drop Off ............................................... 19
3.5 Transit Stop Design ................................................................ 20
3.5.1 Transit Stop Pole ................................................................ 20
Page 107 of 146
3.5.2 Passenger Area .................................................................. 20

3.5.3 Transit Shelter .................................................................... 21
3.6 Fleet ....................................................................................... 23
3.6.1 In-Transit Information.......................................................... 23
3.6.2 General Vehicle Features ................................................... 23
3.6.3 Seating ............................................................................... 24
3.6.4 Stop Requests and Emergency Controls ............................ 25
3.7 Safety and Security ................................................................ 27
3.7.1 General Features................................................................ 27
3.7.2 Inclement Weather and Service Disruptions ....................... 28
Page 108 of 146
1. Purpose
This checklist is designed to help you identify the accessible features
of your transit system. This checklist is not meant for accessibility
experts, but rather for any transit staff that wants to learn more about
the accessibility of their system.
The dictionary defines accessible as able to be easily obtained or
used. It is a term that can be understood in different ways by
different people. The truth is you will never be able to have a facility
that is 100% accessible to 100% of people. The best anyone can do
is to increase their accessibility to try to accommodate as many
people as possible.
The goal, of course, is to have a transit system that is accessible, that
can be easily used by everyone. Unfortunately, our budgets are not
unlimited, and structural changes dont come easily. Thats reality,
but it is not as much of a problem as you might think. Chances are,
your system is not fully accessible. Accurate information is the
MOST useful tool for anyone with accessibility needs when they are
planning their trips. If someone knows in advance where they might
run into a problem, they can plan their trip around it and it becomes a
non-issue. If you can provide information about the current
accessible features of your system, you are providing an important
customer service, which will make people with disabilities much more
comfortable using your system.
Note: This checklist was designed using the proposed Accessibility
for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Built Environment
Standard, July 2010, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
Accessible Design and the Built Environment (B65.1-04), along with
recognized best practices. It is designed to give you a good start in
identifying the accessibility level of your transit system. It should NOT
be considered an acceptable substitute for the building code or
1
Page 109 of 146
AODA regulations. If you would like extra help in assessing your

facilities, feel free to enlist an architect, or an AODA consultant who
can conduct a full audit. They can also help to explain the
regulations and assist in prioritizing any upgrades.
2
Page 110 of 146
2. How to Use the Checklist

Each section of the checklist covers a different portion of the transit
system, from the fleet, to the facilities, to the customer service. We
have included pictures for clarity wherever possible. There is a
glossary provided at the end of the checklist that you may refer to if
any of the terms are unclear.
As you go through each section, there is a short introduction to the
section, and then a series of questions. For each question you will be
able to choose Yes, No, or N/A. If you are not sure, feel free to
skip the question and ask for help with it at a later date. If the question
cannot be answered, feel free to add comments wherever you might
find them useful. For example, maybe there are power door operators
on some doors, but not others.
The checklist is designed to incorporate a wide variety of potential
access issues. The goal is to highlight accessibility features that
would benefit a wide variety of people. Not everyone with a disability
will need the system to meet all of these standards. Each point on the
checklist will help some, but may have no effect on the experience of
others.
We encourage you to involve your accessibility steering committee in
the checklist process. They will likely be enthusiastic participants who
can provide you with insights and clarifications as you complete each
section. It is not necessary to complete the entire checklist in one
session. You may work on it over multiple sessions, or have different
people complete the sections with which they are most familiar.
Do not be discouraged if you find yourself checking the No and N/A
boxes often. Knowing the current status of your system is the most
important step in being able to provide good customer service to your
riders with disabilities. It is important to focus on the positive, and
know that every single Yes answer will allow more people to use your
system.
3
Page 111 of 146
3. Transit System Accessibility

Checklist
Date:
Station Name:
Assessed by:
3.1 Communication Elements

When preparing to complete this section of the checklist consider all
the ways in which you normally communicate with your customers
including prospective riders. It is important to remember that some
people use specialized devices to assist them with communication, or
have another person help them to communicate.
The AODA Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation (IASR)
provides specific direction in its section on Information and
Communication. It is recommended that you review these
requirements as a part of your accessibility preparations. You will
note that some of the items in this checklist are included in the
standard.
3.1.1 Face-to-Face
Item
Has your staff received
Accessible Customer Service
Standard training?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
4
Page 112 of 146
Item
Does your staff understand

how to communicate with
people who use alternative
methods of communication
such as electronic
communication devices?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
3.1.2 Electronic Communication

Item
Compliance
Are your electronic

documents, including route
maps and timetables,
available in an accessible
format? e.g. large font, file
formats that are accessible
with screen readers, plain
language
Yes
No
N/A
Are your videos available

with close captioning?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
5
Page 113 of 146
Item
Compliance
Are your videos available in

described video?
Yes
No
N/A
Do your Mobile applications

meet Web Content
Accessibility Guidelines
(WCAG 2.0)?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.1.3 Telecommunications
Item
Has your staff received
training in communication
with someone using TTY or
the telecommunication relay
system?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
6
Page 114 of 146
3.1.4 Print Material

Are route maps, timetables
and other public documents
available in large print?
Yes
No
N/A
Is plain language used in

print material whenever
possible?
Yes
No
N/A
Are print materials available

in other accessible formats
upon request? e.g. large
font, Braille
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
3.1.5 Signage and Wayfinding

Item
Do you have directional
signage identifying
accessible entrances,
elevators and washrooms?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
7
Page 115 of 146
Item
Compliance
Are there Tactile Walking

Surface Indicators located at
platform edges, stair
landings and tops of ramps?
Yes
No
N/A
Are entrances for buildings

and shelters clearly identified
with signage at eye level?
Yes
No
N/A
Do you have accessible

signage indicating
washroom? E.g. at eye level,
braille, raised lettering
Yes
No
N/A
Do you have braille on each

sign, below the
corresponding text?
Yes
No
N/A
Are all doors designed to

contrast in colour with the
surrounding area, including
entrances/exits as well as
washroom and other interior
doors?
Yes
No
N/A
Is print on all signage

chosen to contrast in colour
from the background?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
8
Page 116 of 146
Item
Compliance
Image
Comments:
3.2 Facilities
These guidelines provide considerations on barrier free design that
will make transportation systems more accessible to all people,
including those who have difficulties walking and climbing, difficulties
seeing and hearing, and those with hidden disabilities. They also
cover the needs of people with sensory and cognitive impairments.
This checklist is intended to provide you with an overview of
accessibility requirements as outlined by the proposed Accessible
Built Environment Standard (ABES). It is not a comprehensive audit
tool. For details and specific dimensions please refer to the ABES.
3.2.1 Doors and Doorways

Item
Compliance
Is there enough space to

maneuver a wheelchair on
both sides of door?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the door handles

designed so they do not
require tight grasping,
pinching, or twisting at the
Yes
No
N/A
Image
9
Page 117 of 146
Item
wrist?
Are power door openers
installed on both sides of the
door?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
3.2.2 Washrooms
Item
Compliance
Are the washrooms located

in accessible areas? e.g.
the path to get to the
washroom is barrier free
Yes
No
N/A
Are the washrooms

equipped with power door
openers?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the faucets easy to

operate or automatic? Easy
to operate means that you
can turn them on and off
with a fist.
Yes
No
N/A
Image
10
Page 118 of 146
Item
Are there two grab bars, one
behind, and one beside the
toilet at each accessible
stall?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
3.2.3 Exterior Paths

Item
Compliance
Are the exterior paths well

lit?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the exterior paths

unobstructed by changes in
level, build up of snow, ice
and water, or other barriers?
Yes
No
N/A
Are there minimal changes

in level or slopes at stations
and transit stops? (this
does not include marked
ramps with railings)
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
11
Page 119 of 146
3.2.4 Interior Paths

Item
Compliance
Are the interior paths

unobstructed by changes in
level or other barriers?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the floors stable, and

slip resistant?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
12
Page 120 of 146
3.2.5 Ramps and Stairs

Item
Compliance
Are there ramps as an

alternative to stairs when
necessary? The ramps
should be close enough to
the stairs so as to be an
obvious alternative.
Yes
No
N/A
Do the ramps have

handrails?
Yes
No
N/A
Are there handrails on both

sides of stairwells?
Yes
No
N/A
Does each step have nonslip nosing on the edge of

the step which is both a
different colour and texture
than the rest of the step?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
13
Page 121 of 146
3.2.6 Elevators
Item
Compliance
Are there elevators on the

premises that allow access
to each level?
Yes
No
N/A
Do the elevator doors and

doorjambs contrast in colour
to the surrounding wall
surface?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there signage on both

sides of each doorjamb that
indicate the floor level?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there braille provided to

the left of each elevator
button? (generally braille is
provided beneath text, but
elevators are the exception
where the braille should be
on the left)
Yes
No
N/A
Is the elevator equipped with

two-way hands free
communication in case of
emergency?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
14
Page 122 of 146
3.2.7 Escalators
Item
Compliance
Are there escalators on the

premises?
Yes
No
N/A
Are there two flat treads at

the entrance and exit of the
escalator?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there a colour contrast

strip at the edge of each
tread?
Yes
No
N/A
Does the escalator landing

transition have a tactile
walking surface and
contrasting colour?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
15
Page 123 of 146
3.2.8 Rest Areas

Item
Are there rest areas
provided on accessible
paths?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
16
Page 124 of 146
3.3 Payment Systems

3.3.1 Fare System
Item
Compliance
Is there a barrier free fare

system and payment option
available?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there signage to indicate

location of barrier free fare
options and payment
locations?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
17
Page 125 of 146
3.4 Automobile Connections

3.4.1 Parking
Item
Compliance
Is there an accessible path

provided from parking to
building?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the accessible parking

spaces clearly marked on
pavement and with vertical
signage?
Yes
No
N/A
Are at least 5% of all parking

spaces accessible?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
18
Page 126 of 146
3.4.2 Passenger Pick Up/Drop Off

Item
Is there adequate space for
vehicles to pull up out of the
flow of traffic?
Is there an accessible path

from the pick up/drop off
location to the building?
Is there adequate space for
a ramp to be deployed from
the side of a vehicle onto a
landing area?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
Yes
No
N/A
Yes
No
N/A
Comments:
19
Page 127 of 146
3.5 Transit Stop Design

3.5.1 Transit Stop Pole
Item
Compliance
Are the transit stop poles

consistent in location and
design throughout the
system?
Yes
No
N/A
Are transit poles distinctive

in design from other poles
surrounding the transit stop?
Yes
No
N/A
Is signage on the pole

mounted at eye level?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.5.2 Passenger Area

Item
Is there accessible access to
the transit stop?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
20
Page 128 of 146
Item
Compliance
Is the surface flat, stable,

and free of obstructions?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there sufficient space at

the stop for a person using a
wheelchair to rest out of the
flow of pedestrian traffic?
Yes
No
N/A
Is seating provided?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.5.3 Transit Shelter

Item
Compliance
Is the shelter entrance large

enough for easy entrance
and exit?
Yes
No
N/A
Is there sufficient space

inside the shelter for
maneuvering a wheelchair?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
21
Page 129 of 146
Item
Compliance
Image
Comments:
22
Page 130 of 146
3.6 Fleet
3.6.1 In-Transit Information
Item
Compliance
Are all on-board stops

announced in an audible and
visual format?
Yes
No
N/A
Is the on board signage

consistently shaped,
coloured and located
throughout the fleet?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.6.2 General Vehicle Features

Item
Compliance
Are grab bars provided on

board the vehicle?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the floor surfaces on

board the vehicle stable and
slip resistant?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
23
Page 131 of 146
Item
Are the lighting levels on
board sufficient for safety
and visibility?
Compliance
Yes
No
N/A
Does the vehicle have a lift

or a ramp?
Yes
No
N/A
Are there visual and audible

indicators when the ramp/lift
is in use?
Yes
No
N/A
Is at least one rail car per

train accessible to people
using mobility devices such
as wheelchairs or scooters?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.6.3 Seating
Item
Is courtesy seating provided
for people with disabilities
near the entrance of the
vehicle?
Compliance
Image
Yes
No
N/A
24
Page 132 of 146
Item
Compliance
Are there two or more

spaces on the vehicles
allocated for people using
mobility devices?
Yes
No
N/A
Do drivers offer to secure

mobility devices?
Yes
No
N/A
Are securement hooks

available for personal
mobility devices where
appropriate?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
3.6.4 Stop Requests and Emergency Controls

Item
Compliance
Are there accessible

Emergency Response
Controls on vehicles?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the accessible stop

requests and emergency
response controls easily
operated with a closed fist?
Yes
No
N/A
Do the controls contrast in
Yes
Image
25
Page 133 of 146
Item
colour with the surrounding
surfaces?
Compliance
No
N/A
Are the controls mounted

low enough for use in a
seated position?
Yes
No
N/A
Do the controls provide

auditory, tactile and visual
feedback?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
26
Page 134 of 146
3.7 Safety and Security

3.7.1 General Features
Item
Compliance
Are the emergency controls

installed at an accessible
operating height?
Yes
No
N/A
Are the building emergency

exit procedures and maps
easily readable?
Yes
No
N/A
Do emergency response
policies provide for the
safety of people with
disabilities?
Yes
No
N/A
Do the alarm systems have

audible and visual
components (i.e.
stroboscopic lighting)?
Yes
No
N/A
Do the Emergency power

sources allow for the use of
automatic doors and
elevators?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
27
Page 135 of 146
3.7.2 Inclement Weather and Service Disruptions

Item
Compliance
Does your system have an

accessible method to
communicate service
disruptions to riders?
Yes
No
N/A
Does the system employ

provisions to minimize
service disruptions during
inclement weather? i.e.
snow clearing
Yes
No
N/A
Are accessibility concerns

kept in mind during times of
inclement weather?
Yes
No
N/A
Image
Comments:
28
Page 136 of 146
ACCESSAUDITREPORTOFDELHIMETRO
DhanasekarA.
March2012
ThemetrostationatSakethadadecentrampwithrailingsonboththesides.Thetactileflooringtoassistvisually
impairedpeoplewasmissing.
Thelifthadaveryinterestingsystemofgoingupanddownautomatically,withoutaneedtopressthefloornumber.
Thoughanotherdrawbackwasthattherewasnofloorannouncementsysteminsidethelift.
Availingawheelchairwasagreatproblemasthereisnosignageorinformationboardonwheretoavailawheelchair.
Thesecurityandotherpersonnelworkingwereunawareoftheword"wheelchair".
Whenapproachingtheticketcounter,theinformationboardsonticketingandotherswereataheightandwerenotin
braille.
Thecounterassuchwashighmakingitinaccessibleforwheelchairusers.
Further,theprocessofissuingtokenswasnotaccessibleasthefareforanydistanceisnotmadeauditory.
Whileenteringintothetrainareaortowardsit,oneneedstocrossanareawhichprohibitsentryunlessoneinsertsthe
tokenataparticulargapsothatitopensforentry.Thespaceisminimalandpeoplewhodonothavegoodhand
functionwillnotbeabletodothesame.Apersonwithvisualimpairmentagainwouldhavedifficultyaccessingthis
serviceindependentlyashe/shewouldnotbeabletoinsertthetokentomoveforward.
Thesecurityclearanceagainisanissueasthereisnotenoughspaceforawheelchairtopassthrough.
Theflooringissoslipperythatevenmylegsslippedforgetaboutmycrutch.
Whileapproachingthetrainthereisn'tanyannouncementastowhichtrainrunsonwhichplatform(thoughthereare
onlytwoplatforms).Whileenteringintothetrainthereisasmallgapbetweentheplatformandthetrainfurther
addingtothisbarrierforwheelchairpassengersthereisaheightdifferencebetweentheplatformandthetrain.
ThespaceinsidethetrainwasfairexceptthatIfeltbiggerwheelchairscantbemovedaround.Therewasnoplaceto
holdontowhenitcomestoapersononwheelchairasthetrainwasjerkingandatsuddenbreaksamsurethe
wheelchairwouldeasilylosecontrolandtumbleattimes.
WheelchairtiedownswerenotavailableinthetrainsItravelledin.
Thesignageonemergencyexitshouldbeincontrastingcolours.TheonesIsawwerewhiteonagreenbackground.
Thesamewasnotclearlyvisible.Especiallywiththelightinginsidethetrain.
Theannouncementsystemwasexcellentguidingpassengerswherethetrainwasapproachingnextandwhenatrain
arrivedataparticularstationitwasdisplayedinyellowandgreenonthescreentoo,whichwillhelppersonswith
hearingimpairment.
TheotherinterestingthingIcametoknowwaswhenIbuyatokenforastationfivestationsahead,Iwouldnotbeable
togetoutofastationinbetweenthefivestations.Soheretheinformationonthesameshouldbeavailableinbraille
andaudiblyaswell.
Whiletryingtomoveinsidethetraintoanotherbogeythereisasteptocrossover.
ThetoiletattheHondaCitystationwasinaverybadcondition.Thedoorwasamagneticonewithaneedtopullit
outwardsthiswasextremelydifficultformetoopenandgoin.Itiscompletelyinaccessibleforawheelchairtoenter
Page 137 of 146
intothetoilet.
FurthermorewhenIenteredthetoiletitwasinanappallingconditionasitwasuntidy.Aphotoofwhichisseenbelow.
DISABLEDFRIENDLYTOILETATHONDACITYSTATION
@++`
a
Theinformationboardastothechargesatthetoiletwasagainataheight.Thesameshouldbeavailableatlower
heightandinBraille.
IhadvisitedotherstationslikeRajivChowkwhichwereinsimilarconditions.
Ialsocametoknowthattherewouldbeonlyonewheelchairavailableataparticularstation.Iwonderhowfeasible
thatis!
Asfarasemergencyexitsatthestationitisabundantlyclearthatthereisnosysteminplacetoevacuatedisabled
peoplerightfromanalarmforalldisabledpeople.
Theemergencybuttonswithinthetrainarealsoataheighttherebymakingitinaccessibleforapersononwheelchair.
Furthermorethesamecantbeaccessedbyapersonwithvisualimpairmentincaseofanemergency.
Page 138 of 146
GAPBETWEENTRAIN&PLATFORM
INFOBOARDINSIDETRAIN
Page 139 of 146
INFOREGARDINGSTATIONS
INSIDETHETRAIN
Page 140 of 146
PATHWAYTONEXTBOGEY
EMERGENCYEXITSIGN
Page 141 of 146
EMERGENCYBUTTON
EMERGENCYBUTTON
Page 142 of 146
TOILETINFORMATIONBOARD
COMMONTOILETENTRANCE
Page 143 of 146
SINKHEIGHTINTOILET
INFORMATIONBOARD@SAKETTICKETCOUNTER
Page 144 of 146
TICKETCOUNTERSAKE
VALIDTICKETCHECKINGMACHINE
Page 145 of 146
Page 146 of 146

DRA CMRL Compilation of Submissions Till 20150825

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DRA CMRL Compilation of Submissions Till 20150825

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Chennai Metro Accessibility : A Compilation

Making Chennai Metro accessible to all ...including passengers with disabilities

Submissions from DRA to CMRL

Independent travel rendered impossible by non-compliant design

Srinivasan, M (2012, May 6), Chennai Metro will be barrier-free: CMRL.

DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl

REQUIREMENTS & SUGGESTIONS :

TEAM DISABILITY RIGHTS ALLIANCE

DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl

Appendix 1: User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility - 3 July 2015

Appendix 1 : User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility 3 July 2015

Appendix 1 : User Experiences of Chennai Metro Accessibility 3 July 2015

DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl

Ummul Khair .............................................................................................................. 3

Shankar Subbiah ......................................................................................................... 3

V.S. Sunder ................................................................................................................. 5

Smitha Sadasivan ........................................................................................................ 8

c) EMERGENCY AID: .................................................................................................... 8

DISPLAY MESSAGES: ............................................................................................ 8

ENTRY TO TRAIN: .................................................................................................... 8

Rajiv Rajan .................................................................................................................. 9

In the beginning, giddy with great expectations...

EXPERIENCE SPEAKS: DRA-NTT Data Team access trip (3/7/2015)

4. On the platforms, no information or directions to facilities like ATMs, Emergency

E TERNAL OPTIMISM VS . REFUSAL TO ACCEPT REALITY

Progress update on recommendations submitted so far

Transparency in sharing information to enable accurate inputs with the

- Disclosure to the public on what accessibility features will be present /

- Enable disabled citizens of this State to be apprised of CMRL progress by

- Ensure as far as possible, the following accessibility features as

I, for my part, would like to make two specific requests/recommendations:

Can you please appoint an Accessibility consultant (such as Shivani Gupta of

REFUSAL TO ACCEPT REALITY: RAILING AGAINST THE CURRENT STATE

DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl

INDEPENDENT TRAVEL RENDERED IMPOSSIBLE BY NON-COMPLIANT DESIGN: ..................................................................... 2

COMMITMENTS NOT KEPT ...................................................................................................................................................... 3

DRA OBSERVATION .................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Signages within and outside the Station .................................................................................................................................... 3

[B] IN LIFTS: ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

[C] COACHES: .....................................................................................................................................................................................10

CAUTION : VISUAL DESIGN ..................................................................................................................................................13

COMMITMENTS NOT KEPT

[A] IN METRO STATIONS:

Pictogram contrast insufficient,

Signs lit patchily, pictograms

2. Dedicated parking space subject to space availability.

DRA submissions to CMRL bit.ly/Dra2Cmrl

3. NON SLIPPERY FLOORS AND WELL LIT PASSAGES .

4. CONVENIENT DESIGN OF STATION STRUCTURE FOR FREE MOVEMENT .

No colour or luminance contrast between walls

The platform should

Reaching hygiene faucet

Very sharp edges on

Shoes removed as wet floor

COUNTERS, VENDING MACHINES Page 49

A minimum of 1 lowered service counter and 1 disbursing machine on the premises.

9. D EDICATED AUTOMATIC FARE COLLECTION (AFC) GATES.

11. SIMPLE AND UNIFORM TERMINAL DESIGN AVOIDING GLOSSY SURFACES/GLASSES.

14. STAIR CASES AS PER STANDARDS WITH HANDRAILS.

Maximum number of risers on a flight shall be limited to 12.

LIFT CARS WITH REQUIRED SPACE AND WIDE

Braille unevenly embossed

While this standing pole is useful for people entering

(CAPTIONS - CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT)