22.6. Guidelines and Standards Followed

• NBC 2016 (National Building Code) – Chapter on "Requirements for Accessibility in Built Environment"
• CPWD Guidelines 2014 – Handbook on barrier-free design
• RPWD Act 2016 – Legal mandate to provide accessibility to all

This chunk outlines the national standards that the Delhi Metro and Bengaluru Airport adhere to in order to ensure accessibility. The National Building Code (NBC) of 2016 includes specific requirements designed to create environments that are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. The CPWD Guidelines provide a comprehensive handbook for designing buildings that can be easily navigable by individuals with diverse accessibility needs. Moreover, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act of 2016 is a legal framework that mandates the provision of accessibility in all public infrastructure, reinforcing the necessity for compliance with these standards.

Think of the national standards as the rules of a game, like soccer or basketball. Just as players need to follow these rules to ensure the game is fair and enjoyable for everyone, architects and planners must follow these accessibility standards to create spaces that everyone can use, including those with disabilities. If the rules aren't followed, some players might not be able to participate fully, just like individuals with disabilities might find public spaces unwelcoming or difficult to navigate if accessibility is not prioritized.

• ISO 21542:2011 – Building construction – Accessibility and usability of the built environment
• ADA Standards (U.S.) – Influence on tactile systems, ramp slopes, and elevator design

This chunk discusses international benchmarks for accessibility that influence the design and functionality of infrastructures like the Delhi Metro and Bengaluru Airport. ISO 21542:2011 provides guidelines about the accessibility and usability of built environments worldwide. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards are particularly influential in the design of tactile systems (like textured surfaces for navigation), ramp slopes, and elevator functionalities, ensuring that these technical aspects are designed to accommodate individuals with various disabilities.

Imagine you are trying to assemble a piece of furniture, and you have an instruction manual that provides guidelines for different countries. Even if the furniture is sold globally, the manufacturer would likely use the most effective designs known internationally. Similarly, when creating accessible environments, designers look to international standards like ADA and ISO to ensure that facilities are not only functional but also safe and welcoming to everyone. This is like following best practices that have been tested and proven to work well in various situations.

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