News

Volume 3 Issue 6 - March 15, 2005

N.D.M.C. to build a disabled-friendly Delhi

DNIS News Network - N.D.M.C. takes what might be the first steps to make Delhi barrier-free for disabled citizens.

The New Delhi Municipal Corporation (N.D.M.C.) has finally realised that the Capital needs to be barrier-free in order to cater to its disabled citizens. Formulating an action plan under provisions of Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, the N.D.M.C. is all set go full steam ahead to make Delhi accessible to all. The Corporation owns two hospitals, 15 dispensaries and various buildings. Soon all its buildings will have facilities for disabled persons.

Starting with the heart of the city, the N.D.M.C. has constructed ramps all over Connaught Place. According to a senior official, “One can easily go around Connaught Place on a wheelchair now. In fact, ramps have been made with non-slip material.”

The Corporation has also started upgradation work on its public toilets. The plan is also to build toilets and then turn them over to private parties for maintenance. In return, the private firms will get advertising rights. “The N.D.M.C. will not spend a penny,” said a senior official. All open urinals, in the city, will be completely done away with and replaced with cleaner and neater toilets, which will have running water and regular maintenance and cleanliness checks. The toilets will be modified to make them wheelchair-friendly.

Besides ramps, several other alterations will be made for disabled people. “At least one toilet in each block will be specially designed to suit the needs of physically challenged persons. This will include a 1.5 m wide door to allow wheelchairs to come in easily, special low commodes and grab rails to assist in shifting from the wheelchairs to the toilet seat,” said Lt. Col. S.K. Garg, Medical Officer of Health, N.D.M.C.