15 Old Beijing Subway Stations Are Getting Escalators and Elevators!

The escalator and elevator installation project for Beijing subway stations has just entered its on-site construction phase. The first batch covers 15 stations, including Dawanglu, Guomao and Wangfujing stations on Line 1 and Gulou Dajie Station on Line 2.

[Photo via The Beijing News]

Existing routes of subway lines such as Line 1/Batong Line, Line 2, Line 10 and Line 13 were constructed many years ago, and are constrained by their original design standards. Spaces in these station concourses and platforms are limited, and their underground utility networks are complex and densely intertwined. As a result, it is not suitable to install escalators and elevators at all these station entrances and exits. 
In accordance with the principle of tailoring solutions for each station and comprehensively considering factors including the available space from station entrances/exits to concourses and platforms, the feasibility of pipeline relocation, public demands and the concentration of passenger flows, 15 stations across four lines — Line 1/Batong Line, Line 2, Line 10 and Line 13 — were selected to install 33 escalators and 7 elevators.
Construction will be carried out mainly during the nighttime when the subway service is suspended, and each new unit will be put into service as soon as it is completed, so as to gradually improve escalator and elevator services for the stations. 
While advancing the installation projects, Beijing Subway will also make good use of its existing accessibility services, such as the reservation service, wheelchair boarding ramps, and assistance call buttons, to provide convenience for passengers with reduced mobility.
Source: Beijing Evening News