Helpline number exclusively for the Mumbai elderly

The existing condition of senior residents has always been a matter of concern. They have been devoid of many facilities but have been unable to voice their opinion.

So, now Thane Vikas Nagrik Sanghrash Samiti, who has been pro in helping senior citizens, has come forward with a number 022-25443399 on which people can call register their names and issues and help in raising the concern of seniors.

Harischandra Chavan, president of Vikash Nagrik Sangharsh Samiti, says, "Seniors are going through a very tough phase and something needs to be done urgently. Recently, cases against seniors have also gone up, and there is not much assistance from the state government as well towards better life for seniors."

A senior resident, KV Chandran from Thane, has also written a letter to the prime minister, expressing his concern over the treatment meted out to seniors at various public places in Thane. He has alleged in his letter that medical and transportation services are not proper for seniors and the government is not very pro in helping or improving the situation for them as well.

Chavan says, "Retired elderly are not leading a good life as they are devoid of necessary facilities by the government. For instance, there are not not many senior residents' organisation and sadly they don't know how and where to raise their voice. The youngsters are busy in their life and don't have enough time to listen to the problems of these seniors."

"To take care of their woes, we have started this number 022-25443399 on which people can call and register themselves. We will then make a list of their problems and draft a letter to the state and central governments for immediate attention. Interested seniors can call between 11am and 9pm," he added.