SMRT to try out 'care zone' on MRT train platforms, new feedback channels

A dedicated "care zone" on selected rail platforms, and a feedback channel using WhatsApp were launched by SMRT on Wednesday, among a series of four pilot initiatives to make train rides safer and smoother. -- ST PHOTO: ADRIAN LIM 
A dedicated "care zone" on selected rail platforms, and a feedback channel using WhatsApp were launched by SMRT on Wednesday, among a series of four pilot initiatives to make train rides safer and smoother. -- ST PHOTO: ADRIAN LIM 

SINGAPORE - A dedicated "care zone" on selected rail platforms, and a feedback channel using WhatsApp were launched by SMRT on Wednesday, among a series of four pilot initiatives to make train rides safer and smoother.

To be tried out at 13 MRT stations with high ridership, these zones - in the form of blue boxes painted on the platform - will cater to people with special needs or those who are travelling alone and may need extra attention, such as elderly folk.

These zones are monitored using closed-circuit television (CCTV), complemented with an emergency phone located nearby.

SMRT also announced two new feedback channels - a WhatsApp hotline, 9788 4398, for commuters to send in photos of defects at stations or on trains - and an e-Feedback tablet, which will be placed at the passenger service centres of 22 train stations.

To enhance safety for commuters using escalators in train stations, SMRT will also run announcements telling people to mind their step and to hold on to the handrails.

Mr Alvin Kek, vice president of rail operations, SMRT trains, said these four initiatives will be piloted until the end of the year, alongside three others launched since July.

The earlier measures include priority queues, mobile device charging stations, and care stickers to identify commuters with needs, such as pregnant women and senior citizens.

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