A railway station is a place where trains stop to pick up or drop off passengers. It may also provide services for the traveling public, such as a depot for locomotives and goods. However, the station itself must be properly designed and maintained to provide a safe, comfortable, and efficient experience for passengers. The design should include a number of features, such as an information enquiry point, a police station, and a ticket office.
An entry way is a gateway into the station that should be welcoming to prospective passengers. In order to avoid confusion, the entrances must be clearly marked and the entrance door must be easily identifiable. They should also be free of obstructions that could hinder the flow of traffic.
An exit way should also be designed for safety. Exit ways should not face the tracks so as to keep train passengers from tripping on the tracks and causing delays. These exit ways should be wide enough to allow a person to easily see where they are going.
In addition to providing an easy exit, a rail station should include a two-foot warning strip with small bumps to prevent a fall. This is especially important for elderly people and people with disabilities. Additionally, a transparent glass wall can enhance the appearance of the station while also enhancing passenger safety.
In addition to a well-designed exit, a railway station should also have an attractive and comfortable entrance. Typically, the entrance is a gangway, which is a large passageway built along the sides of the track. Some stations feature an end entrance that allows steps to be fitted at each side of the gangway.
Stations should include plenty of seating and waiting areas. This should include adequate seating for passengers, as well as sufficient space for luggage. Refreshment rooms are another essential part of a comfortable station.
A station is the first point of contact for many travelers. For this reason, it is important to consider the needs of the traveling public, as well as the costs associated with each entrance. A station is not only a transit center, but also a place for a variety of businesses. Businesses can range from retail and restaurant outlets to shoe repair shops, florists, and bookstores.
Another important feature of a railway station is a train inquiry office. This should be located close to the station building. Also, a giant clock with the correct time should be installed. Other useful features to have in a station are a police station, a train inquiry office, and a taxi service. Moreover, a board should be placed near the building that shows the timetable of the various trains that operate in the area.
Another important feature of a station is a platform. Platforms are normally raised from the ground. Platforms should be wide enough to accommodate the largest number of passengers. However, it is important that the platform is not overly large, so as not to waste valuable space.
