News

Volume 6 Issue 9 - October 15, 2009

Demand for accessible hotel rooms on the rise

D.N.I.S. News Network, India: The Ministry of Tourism in July, had released its guidelines which required all hotels to become disabled friendly by September 2010. Hoteliers are now saying that the demand for accessible rooms has gone up considerably.

“We are now meeting international standards. If all hotels provide such facilities, it will work wonders,” said R.S. Bedi, Proprietor, Diplomat Hotel, Mumbai.

“Accessible rooms have become a necessity, as not all guests can afford to stay in a five-star hotel,” added Zubin S. Songadwala, General Manager, I.T.C. Grand Central, Mumbai.

The guidelines make it mandatory for hotels to have atleast one room for disabled people, at least one accessible unisex toilet in the lobby and access to atleast one restaurant. It also includes ramps with anti slip floors, attached bath and designated parking. The minimum door width of rooms meant for people with disabilities should be one metre to allow wheelchair access. It also states that furniture should be of low height, cupboards should have sliding doors with low clothes hangers. Rooms should also have audible and visible alarm systems.