A dedicated pathway for persons with disability was opened at Marina Beach.
What’s it about? Marina beach now has a permanent exclusive pathway for disabled persons. Inaugurated by several dignitaries, it was established by the Chennai Corporation. On social media, Chief Minister MK Stalin cited the words of a woman who said this was a dream come true. Post-inauguration, a large number of people gathered at the pathway.
- It was developed for ₹1.14 crores under the Singara Chennai 2.0 initiative. It was first announced in the Assembly as part of broader infrastructure projects for 2022-23.
- The 3-metre-wide pathway leads to a 22-metre-wide deck for people to view the sea. Mechanical cleaning operations of the pathway were also launched.
Experts and residents speak: Disabled persons have asked that the pathway not be used by non-disabled persons. The Disability Rights Alliance Tamil Nadu thanked the Corporation for the pathway and for having four beach wheelchairs. They said this was a start, and other facilities like toilets need to be accessible.
- The Alliance said there should be crossing floor markings, smart poles with CCTVs, safety flags, and disability-friendly lifeguard training.
(Image credits: Greater Chennai Corporation’s Twitter Post)