News Nagoya deploys ‘Stop and Stand Squad’ on escalators

[thomas]

In Nagoya, standing still on escalators has become a paid job as part of a unique campaign aimed at preventing accidents ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. The campaign supports a local ordinance enacted in 2023, which prohibits walking on escalators in train stations, shopping centres, and office buildings across the city. Despite efforts such as posters and public announcements, TV Asahi reports that many people remain unaware of the rule, raising concerns about potential injuries as non-compliance persists.

Nagoyaka ni STOP shite ne

The Stop and Stand Squad has been tasked with getting the message out that such behaviour is unacceptable. Members of the squad are equipped with a huge yellow hand that they wear as a backpack emblazoned with a phrase that translates as "Please stop tranquilly". A junior squad member can earn 6,500 yen (US$45) for a six-hour shift, while a team leader who oversees two colleagues earns a respectable 16,000 yen – better than most part-time jobs. The initiative was implemented at 19 stations in Nagoya for a total of 50 days last year, according to Tokyo Weekender.

In Japan, a ‘Stop and Stand Squad’ aims to reduce accidents on escalators

Team members are paid for six hours a day to prevent people from walking up escalators in train stations and other areas in Nagoya.

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