The recent incident where two visually impaired students fell onto Metro tracks has reignited calls for the installation of platform screen doors at Bengaluru Metro stations. Metro officials estimate the cost of installing these doors at between Rs 450 crore and Rs 500 crore.
Platform screen doors are seen as crucial for enhancing passenger safety and preventing disruptions caused by suicides and accidents. Each of the 65 Metro stations would require an estimated Rs 7 crore plus GST for installation, with Kempegowda station, featuring four platforms, potentially costing double.
Similar safety measures have been implemented in Chennai and Ahmedabad, and Delhi Metro is working on installing both half-height and full-height doors. Despite the significant financial outlay, the cost is deemed necessary for passenger safety. BMRCL’s operational profit, currently allocated to cover an annual interest of nearly Rs 90 crore, underscores the challenge of financing such an initiative. Officials suggest seeking funding from state and central governments, as well as corporate social responsibility (CSR) contributions.
The installation poses logistical challenges, including the need for a three-hour nightly window for work, synchronization of screen and train doors, and temporary halts to train services. BMRCL MD Maheshwar Rao has confirmed plans to install these doors at Kempegowda and Sir M Visvesvaraya stations. Tenders have been awarded to Alstom for the installation of these doors on the Phase-2 Pink Line and at the airport terminal station.
Source: Indian Express
Read More: