Editorial | Support Mobility For Disabled

Everyone is to be respected. Everyone is to be treated with dignity. People with disability are no exception. They are members of our society, our families, our community. But unfortunately, most often, they are neglected. One of the major issues that they confront is the lack of accessible transport.

For an able-bodied person, it is simple to board a bus, travel by train or even go by an auto. But for a person in a wheelchair or one who can’t see or hear, even reaching the bus stop is difficult. Try to hop on a bus when there are no ramps, or no audible signals or Braille signs. Most people with disabilities do not leave their homes, not by choice, but simply because they can’t get around.

This is not right. This is not equitable. And above all, this is not respectful.

India has legislation to safeguard individuals with disabilities. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, stipulates that the government will make transport simple and safe for them. It stipulates that public buildings and public transport need to be accessible. But in practice, not much has improved. The promise of equal access has yet to become a way of life.

In the majority of towns and cities, buses are not low-floor. They lack ramps. They lack wheelchair-accessible seats. Train terminals lack elevators or ramps at all stations. There are no audio or Braille signs to assist the visually impaired. Taxi companies or autos will hardly stop for a person in a wheelchair. Even at airports, where the facilities are improved, the ride is often replete with delays, confusion and humiliation.

In rural towns, it is worse. There is virtually no public transport, never mind accessible transport. The disabled person has no option but to rely on others. That makes him/her feel small, unwanted and excluded. That takes away his/her dignity. That hurts his/her confidence.

Let’s have one thing very clear: this is not charity. This is not assistance. This is a fundamental human right.

If a child cannot reach school because there is no transport they can use, we are denying them education. If a person cannot reach the hospital because of stairs or bad roads, we are denying them health care. If someone cannot go to work or take part in public life, we are shutting them out of society.

This is not just harmful to the individual, it is harmful to our nation. We lose their skills, their energy, their talent. We put them into poverty. We make them more dependent on others. In a nation that desires to grow and move forward, this is a significant step backwards.

What should we do?

First, we need to hear from people with disabilities. Ask them what they require. Let them assist in designing better public transport systems. They understand the issues. They understand the solutions.

Second, all new buses, trains and public transport must be fully accessible. That is, low floors, ramps, audio announcements, Braille signage and staff trained to assist. No new vehicle should be purchased unless it is accessible to these requirements.

Third, old buses and stations should be improved. Footpaths must have ramps. Roads must be smooth. Traffic signals should have sound. Public toilets should be accessible too.

Fourth, bus and train personnel should be trained to properly and politely help people with disabilities. Most disabled individuals report that the greatest difficulty is not the bus, but the attitude of the people. Some are uncourteous. Some do not care. That has to change.

Fifth, private transport providers such as autos, taxis and app-based services also need to be trained and equipped. There need to be special schemes for them to purchase vehicles appropriate for disabled passengers. The government can assist with loans or tax reductions.

Lastly, we have to raise awareness. Children should be taught in schools how to accommodate and be respectful towards people with disabilities. Media should portray authentic stories of bravery and transformation. Public areas have to put up signs that reinforce respect and kindness.

This is not something for the government to do by itself. It’s a job that we’re all doing. Every time we just ignore someone who has a disability trying to navigate stairs, every time we obstruct a ramp or park in a designated space, we become part of the problem.

But every time we give assistance, speak up, or advocate for change, we become part of the solution.

Respect, Dignity, Inclusion. That is what we owe them. That is what they deserve.

Let us end turning away. Let us begin creating a world in which all people can live fully, move freely, and be treated with the respect they deserve.