The Berlin public transport operator BVG is trialling areas clearly marked in pink around the emergency and information pillars in metro stations. The ‘Pink*Zone’ project aims to enable passengers to immediately identify the locations from which they can call for help and make direct contact with the security centre.
The first markings have been installed at Alexanderplatz, Kurfürstenstraße and Britz-Süd stations, and the project is set to be extended to Walther-Schreiber-Platz and Osloer Straße.
The name PINK is an abbreviation of the German phrase Punkt für Information, Notruf und Kontakt, meaning point for information, emergency call and contact. The asterisk in the project’s name indicates that the system is intended for all passengers.
Pink zones for quick identification of help points
The area around the emergency columns is highlighted with pink markings, so that the help points can be spotted more easily, even at busy stations.
BVG is testing several colour and design options, all of which are also being assessed from an accessibility perspective. The aim is for passengers who feel at risk or need information to immediately recognise where they can seek assistance.
“Safety is not just about technology and staff, but also about clear signage. It must be obvious at a glance where help can be found,” said Henrik Falk, CEO of BVG.
Video link to the security centre
By pressing the emergency button, passengers are put directly through to the operator’s security centre.
BVG staff can see the person via the video system, assess the situation and dispatch response teams. If necessary, the footage can be stored for further investigation.
The network currently has 570 emergency and information call points, supplemented by CCTV, security staff and a specialised coordination centre.
Passengers can give feedback on the project
QR codes are displayed near the marked areas, allowing passengers to provide feedback on the visibility and usefulness of the new markings.
BVG will analyse the responses to determine which options work best and whether the project can be extended to more stations.
“The best solutions emerge in collaboration with our passengers. That is why we are testing different concepts and want to find out what really works in everyday use,” said Jenny Zeller-Grothe, a member of the BVG management team responsible for operations and staff.
Crime has fallen by 16 per cent
The project is being introduced against the backdrop of an improvement in safety across the BVG network.
After the number of offences fell in 2025 to its lowest level in over a decade, the first half of 2026 saw approximately 16 per cent fewer incidents than in the same period the previous year.
Assaults fell by around 14 per cent, sexual offences by 5 per cent, and pickpocketing by 31 per cent, according to figures released by the operator.
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