Rescue operation on the tracks: Viennese wheelchair users saved at the last second!

Rescue operation on the tracks: Viennese wheelchair users saved at the last second!

A dramatic incident occurred last Tuesday in the Handelskai underground station in Brigittenau when Andreas got into a dangerous situation on his way to work. At around 2 p.m. he slipped his hand on the wheelchair and activated the brakes, which led to the left bike blocked and he fell on the tracks. In this critical moment, the interval display showed only two minutes until the next subway. Fortunately, three brave men hurried to help, jumped onto the tracks and helped to return to the platform in time-just as the subway. However, these heroes of the hour disappeared again immediately after making sure that he was fine. Andreas remained with small injuries and broken feelings and only later estimated how close he had been to death, as he had to go to reported.

With regard to security in subway stations, the Viennese lines have implemented comprehensive measures for accessibility. All new subway trains, the so-called V-trains, are equipped with automatic folding bumps that enable an easier start for people with wheelchairs or strollers. Digital information columns are installed at the stops, which have been provided and optimized for people with visual impairments, such as wienerlinien.at . These measures are part of a gradual implementation of barrier -free access that is promoted in cooperation with the city of Vienna and disabled associations.

Andreas survived his shocking fall, but the question remains how many other lifesavers like those who jumped to his side can quickly act in similar scenarios. The progress in accessibility is therefore of crucial importance to ensure that all passengers, regardless of their skills, can move safely and informed by the public transport system.