Lord Blunkett, a former Home Secretary and long-time advocate for disability rights, has demanded action on the “death trap” Tube platforms in London after a “terrifying” fall left him shaken and injured.
The incident occurred at Westminster Tube station when Lord Blunkett, who is blind, tripped and fell onto the tracks. Luckily, he was able to pull himself back onto the platform with the help of bystanders before a train arrived. The fall left him with a bruised arm and a sore back, but he was otherwise unharmed.
Lord Blunkett has long been a vocal critic of the lack of accessibility on London’s public transportation system. He has called for more ramps, handrails, and other safety measures to be installed on Tube platforms to prevent accidents like the one he experienced.
In a statement following the incident, Lord Blunkett said, “I consider myself extremely lucky to have escaped with minor injuries, but this could have been a very different story. The lack of proper safety measures on Tube platforms is a serious issue that needs to be addressed urgently.”
Transport for London (TfL) has responded to Lord Blunkett’s demands, stating that they are committed to improving accessibility on the Tube network. They have pledged to conduct a review of safety measures at all Tube stations and make any necessary improvements.
However, Lord Blunkett believes that more needs to be done. He has called for an urgent meeting with TfL officials to discuss his concerns and push for immediate action.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that exist for those with disabilities on London’s public transportation system. It is imperative that steps are taken to ensure the safety and accessibility of all passengers, regardless of their mobility or sensory impairments.
Lord Blunkett’s call to action should not be ignored. It is time for TfL to prioritize the safety and well-being of all passengers on the Tube network and make the necessary changes to prevent future accidents and injuries.