These columns are typical items on modern platforms in Germany. The one
in the middle contains a telephone, the other two allow the train guard
to operate the "Zp9" signals for both tracks and both directions (in the 
ex-DR area this is a vertical green  bar, telling the locomotive driver 
to depart). Dresden Hbf, track 18/19, 2001-04-21.
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photo: <a href="mailto:tbk@uncia.de">tobias b köhler</a>