At the «Olympic» station in Kyiv Metro, work has commenced on installing tactile strips to assist visually impaired individuals, according to KP «Kyiv Metro».
Tactile navigation will be implemented throughout the station complex and in the underground passage. The work is being carried out by specialists at night to avoid disrupting passenger flow.
The advantage of this technology is the quick and practical application of tactile indicators without interfering with the existing granite surface. Unlike tactile tiles, cold plastic is more economical while serving the same purpose – helping visually impaired individuals to navigate and move safely within a defined space.
Prior to the commencement of work, several consultation phases were held with representatives from disability organizations. Tactile indicators were applied in accordance with current standards and tested by passengers with visual impairments. Their feedback and completed surveys helped refine and enhance the tactile layout.
Throughout every stage of this project, from discussions to practical testing, there has been close cooperation with the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine, the NGO «TRINITY HUB», and the charity foundation «FOUNDATION 03:00», as well as with the Commissioner of the Kyiv City Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Lesia Petrivska.
Metro specialists take into account all recommendations and comments regarding sizes, quantities of tactile indicators, and other specifics while creating this navigation system.
Additionally, the metro offers an escort service for passengers with reduced mobility. This can be ordered by calling (044) 238-55-11 at least an hour before the trip. A staff member will meet the passenger at the station and provide the necessary assistance for a comfortable journey.
As a reminder, escalators at the «Palace «Ukraine» metro station will be renovated by the end of the year. The last repairs took place in the spring of 2014. All escalator components will be thoroughly checked for wear and compliance with technical standards.