Mumbai suburban rail is one of the busiest rapid transit systems in the world — operating more than 2000 train services and carrying more than 7 million passengers daily. Rail map plays a critical role in providing the travel related information to help commuters navigate and guide them towards informed decision making prior to the journey. Need was for a well designed Rail Map. So Me and Jaikishan took up the challenge.
Highlights of the Map
1.Our map introduces a quick navigation system, which lets the user locate his stations within seconds using the box grid. We have introduced grid system in a different way. Its slightly modified in comparison to the traditional grid which has alpha-numeric coordinates. This consideration was from our study of most Indians who are not accustomed to criss-cross alpha numeric grid, excluding people who have travelled abroad where the criss-cross alpha numeric grid is very common.
2. We have included shuttle express way which runs from Vasai to Roha.
3. Clear distinction between Fast and Slow local stops which few maps don't provide.
4. Pleasant and appealing visual appearance where beauty is functional.
5. This map is designed to accommodate the colour blind population.
2. We have included shuttle express way which runs from Vasai to Roha.
3. Clear distinction between Fast and Slow local stops which few maps don't provide.
4. Pleasant and appealing visual appearance where beauty is functional.
5. This map is designed to accommodate the colour blind population.
Iteration 1
This was considered to be you are here map. This was an attempt to lay down all the three local railway routes.
Iteration 2
Legend was introduced. With a new design system in mind. Which eventually dint workout.
Iteration 3
Alphanumerical grid was introduced. With a following Legend for easy navigation of stations.
Iteration 3 legend
Iteration 4
Eventually the Alphanumerical grid was replaced with a basic Number Grid. Which was much easier to grasp and was less taxing to the brain.
Final Map Design
The map was a combined effort of the iterations created by both me and Jaikishan. As it was our class work project we designed two separate maps. But did a collective effort for the Final map for the city with other languages.
Quick easy to find station steps are introduced.
Western, Central, Harbour and Trans Harbour Local train routes covered.
Special Feature of time taken to travel between stations.
Highlighted stations were Fast trains halt.
Station Codes.
Landmarks.
Easy to access Legend.
Finally my dream of having a pocket map for Mumbai Local Trains was achieved. It has to be printed in A4.
Its FREE for download on http://www.mrane.com/railmap.php in all four languages.
Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati and English.
Download the map. Send me your Suggestions.
Thank You.
