The first initiative, Heart Zone, dedicates two areas within the MRT station for frail or visually impaired patients to seek help getting to SGH.
Commuters with physical disabilities and the elderly will be able to receive greater assistance on their journey from Outram Park MRT station to Singapore General Hospital (SGH) starting this month.
In collaboration with SGH, the Public Transport Council, SBS Transit and SMRT have rolled out two initiatives to increase accessibility for commuters within the MRT station as well as towards the various buildings in the SGH campus.
A Heart To Help
The first initiative, Heart Zone, dedicates two areas within the MRT station for frail or visually impaired patients to seek help getting to SGH. Located at the concourse as well as level one of the MRT station, these spots feature a synthetic turf and a bench for resting. Fellow commuters, including staff of SGH on their way to work, could guide the elderly and those with physical disabilities to board the shuttle bus to the hospital.
Wheel-Power
As part of the second initiative named Heartwheels, 4 wheelchairs will be provided at both ends of the linkway between the East-West Line and the North-East Line at the station. Currently, a 210m pedestrian linkway connects the two lines. However, the distance may pose a challenge for elderly commuters or those with physical disabilities. Whenever possible, fellow commuters could lend a hand in pushing the wheelchair users along the linkway.
Chairman of PTC Richard Magnus said that the new initiatives offered opportunities for people to connect and bring out the best in themselves, starting with “simple ways which make a big positive difference.”
The trials will be held until September 15, with the Heart Zone initiative taking place on weekdays between 7.30am and 9.30am, and Heartwheels throughout the station’s operational hours.
Source: Author’s own
Together with existing initiatives, the new trials remind commuters to practice gracious behaviour and to lend a hand to those in need.
(Header credit: Source)
