A city in Japan has decided to ban walking on escalators to limit the number of accidents. The decision came into force on October 1 in the city of Nagoya. The ordinance seeks to reduce the number of incidents involving falls and loss of balance by prohibiting people from walking on escalators on foot.
805 ACCIDENTS IN 2 YEARS
According to the Japan Elevator Association, a total of 805 accidents between 2018 and 2019 were caused by "improper use" of escalators, the Japan Times reported.
"LET'S STAND TOGETHER AND USE BOTH SIDES"
In Japan, the left side of escalators is usually used for stopping, while the right side is left open for those in a hurry and who want to walk. But Nagoya authorities are now asking people to stand on both sides at train stations and other buildings. Posters have been put up at major train stations and people are encouraged to follow this rule. "Let's stand together and use both sides," says one banner.
"ESCALATORS ARE DANGEROUS FOR WALKING, NOT FOR RUNNING"
The idea also received support from Japanese natives before the decision came into force. One user told tourists in Japan last month on X, formerly Twitter, that: "I love how you leave one side of the escalator open for people in a hurry.' I see comments like that sometimes. Escalators are dangerous for walking, not running. I think this is a bad trend in Japan."