Bangalore's visually challenged seek better civic amenities

A non-governmental organisation (NGO) working towards the betterment of the blind organised a solidarity walk on Sunday and presented a charter of demands to the mayor, demanding better access to civic facilities.

Snehadeep Trust for the Disabled organised the walk from Freedom Park to the secretariat on the occasion of International White Cane Day. “We aim to create public awareness about the needs and safety measures to enable the blind to have easy access to civic amenities,” said Paul Muddha, from the Trust.

Some of the facilities they have sought are roads and accessibility in public buildings. The government and public have to be informed about the need to support the differently abled in crossing roads, in creating awareness to construct ramps in public buildings and making the roads accessible to all, repairing broken slabs and broken holes/pits on important footpaths.

“Now that the Metro is a reality, the government must consider giving us a concession,” Muddha said.

The NGO presented the charter of demands to BBMP mayor R Shardamma, who was present for the walkathon. Other demands included providing electronic/talking white canes to blind people at discount rates and reserved seats in BMTC buses.