The reconstruction of the M3 metro line was completed in May, but changes were still being made at the end of June to ensure a safer and more accessible transport. Platform Gap Fillers (PGF) are being installed to provide more comfortable boarding for passengers with wheelchairs, pushchairs, suitcases and heavy luggage. The devices are a novelty in Hungary, the first to be used by passengers on the Blue Metro.
A year ago, we started testing the platform gap filler to reduce the distance between the platform edge and the trains, but we have already reported on this in detail.
The National Federation of Disabled Persons’ Associations (MEOSZ) has indicated that the average clearance of 5-6 centimetres is unsafe for wheelchair users. We looked for good examples to solve the problem and soon found that different technical solutions are being used all over the world. We decided to install PGF elements at stations on the metro line.
The platform gap fillers are strong, flexible platform solutions made of rubber, which can support the weight of pushchairs and wheelchairs and do not damage the metro trains on contact. The elements are relatively easy to install and can be retrofitted to the edges of refurbished platforms. Once installed, the elements reduce the clearance by an average of 5 centimetres.
At each station on the metro line, blue floor stickers mark the location of the PGF elements in two positions per direction. The platform supports are positioned at 5 m lengths, taking into account the space available for pushchairs and wheelchairs in metro trains.
The PGF elements are presented by Márton Konkoly, Chief Technical Associate of the BKV Zrt. Metro Reconstruction Project Directorate, in the video available HERE – in Hungarian.
Video made by Júlia Vincze
