Wayfinding Floor Graphics Pointing towards Elevators at MRT Platforms to Help Wheelchair Users
Ministry of TransportSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns MP Ong Hua Han’s inquiry on whether the Land Transport Authority will implement wayfinding floor graphics on MRT platforms to guide wheelchair users and the elderly toward elevators. Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat stated that consultations with social service agencies indicated such graphics might be less visible during peak hours than current signage and tactile guiding systems. He noted that while floor stickers are being trialled at concourses, existing tactile paths at all MRT platforms already provide navigational assistance to the nearest lifts. Beyond physical enhancements, the government aims to foster an inclusive environment by encouraging commuters to proactively assist those with mobility needs during their daily travels. These efforts are further supported by the Caring SG Commuter Committee, which promotes a more caring and helpful commuter culture across the public transport network.
Transcript
104 Mr Ong Hua Han asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether LTA will consider implementing wayfinding floor graphics pointing towards elevators at MRT platforms which are more visible for wheelchair users and the elderly when they exit from train cabins during peak hours; and (b) if so, whether a timeline can be provided for when commuters can expect to see these enhancements implemented.
Mr Chee Hong Tat (for the Minister for Transport): At present, all Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations have “Priority Use” signs to help wheelchair users and the elderly find their way to the lifts at train platforms. These signs also encourage other commuters to give way to those who need the lift. Operators are trialling directional floor stickers at the station concourse to help with navigation to station exits.
LTA has assessed the Member’s suggestion to add wayfinding graphics on the floor of MRT platforms by consulting various social service agencies (SSAs), including the Handicap Welfare Association and Muscular Dystrophy Association Singapore. The SSAs gave feedback that such signages may be less visible to some users during peak hours compared to existing signages. As an alternative, floor tactile guiding systems are available at all MRT stations, including the train platforms. While these primarily serve to guide commuters with visual impairment to the nearest lift, they can also be used for navigation by other commuters.
Beyond infrastructural enhancements, we encourage commuters to offer assistance to others, such as seniors and commuters with mobility needs, during their daily commute. Through the Caring SG Commuter Committee, we will continue to promote a more inclusive and caring commuter culture.