To the laughter of many, Tokyo Mango reports that new train stations in Japan have suicide prevention platforms. Yep, 5-foot walls barricade the entire platform with doors that only open when the train has safely stopped.
Well for that uninformed amusement let me tell you that jumping in front of a moving train is a common suicide method in Japan. The commuters in this Asian country are never too surprised when a fast train stops suddenly throwing everyone off balance only to save the old woman (there are many young ones too) lying on the tracks to die.
I’m sure many of you feel that how can this 5-foot wall structure be preventive to suicide. You will be surprised to know that no Japanese will ever hop over one. Simply because they are very ‘propah’ (ya ya, it’s not just the British alone). It will be below their dignity to make a public spectacle of themselves (at least, till they are alive).
Reports say that Japan has the highest suicide rate in the world. In 2005, 32550 people killed themselves. There is no single factor held responsible. Many say it is the dwindling economy, some religious belief while a few even say that Japanese are egoists, they can’t tolerate even the tiniest of stain on their personal honour.
Via boingboing
Tags: barricade, highest, Japan, rate, station, suicide, tokyo mango, train, wall, World