Malda Division Enhances Station Accessibility for the Visually Impaired with Braille Navigation Maps

A Step towards Inclusivity: Braille Maps Installed at Malda Town and Bhagalpur Stations
To make the world a little more accessible for visually impaired passengers, Eastern Railway’s Malda Division has undertaken the job of making easier their journey through Braille navigation at different stations. In a step towards inclusive and accessible travel, Malda Division has installed Braille Navigation Maps, signage at Malda Town and Bhagalpur Railway Stations. With this, visually impaired passengers can independently navigate ticket counters and other facilities provided at stations without the assistance of a fellow passenger.

The Braille navigation maps, strategically placed at the entrances of Malda Town and Bhagalpur station, measure 4 feet by 2 feet. These maps provide detailed guidance on identifying various essential services and facilities within the station, such as ticket counters, concourse areas, water taps, toilets, waiting rooms, cloakrooms, platform numbers, entry and exit points, escalators, lifts, and the "May I Help You" desks. This initiative has been implemented in collaboration with the Anuprayas, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) , which has been instrumental in promoting accessibility for visually-impaired individuals across the country.


Speaking on the development, Mr. Manish Kumar Gupta, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Malda Division, said “Malda Division is committed to building an inclusive and passenger-friendly environment. The installation of Braille Navigation Maps at Malda Town and Bhagalpur Railway Stations reflects our dedication to ensuring barrier-free access for all, especially our visually-impaired passengers. We believe that such initiatives significantly enhance their travel experience and promote self-reliance.”

The Braille maps function as tactile blueprints of the stations, guiding users to accurately locate and access various services. Raised surfaces and directional indicators offer step-by-step spatial awareness, including the number of steps and direction required to reach a particular service point.


Eastern Railway, Malda Division continues to strive toward a seamless and equitable travel experience. The Braille navigation maps are a testament to Division’s on-going efforts to make public transport more inclusive and empathetic for every passenger.