New Delhi, Dec 31 (IANS) The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will observe an awareness week Jan 1-7 for safe use of elevators and escalators by its commuters across stations.”Watch your step as you get onto the escalator, hold the railing” - are some of the instructions found on the sign boards put at Metro stations in the capital. However, commuters are often seen turning a blind eye to it.

“The Delhi Metro will observe safety awareness week for elevators and escalators from Jan 1 to 7, 2009. During the week, the commuters will be guided about the safe use of elevators and escalators at all the Delhi Metro stations,” spokesperson of DMRC Anuj Dayal said.

During the week, 80 volunteers of the Scouts and Guides and the Metro staff will increase the awareness amongst the commuters by informing them about the safe use of escalators and elevators.

Informative material such as leaflets will be distributed and posters and banners will be displayed. A safety seminar will also be organised Jan 6.

At present, there are about 165 elevators and an equal number of escalators operational at the Metro stations. Around 300 elevators and 220 escalators are expected to be installed in the Phase II Metro stations.