Shillong, March 22: The Bodily Drugs & Rehabilitation (PMR) Centre has launched the North East’s first wheelchair-accessible vehicle in Shillong, aiming to improve mobility for individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Lahunlang M. Sohliya, Director of the PMR Centre, shared the motivation behind this initiative, citing the challenges confronted by people with mobility limitations. “Many sufferers battle to attend appointments and even go to locations like church buildings or meet associates. It impacts them bodily and mentally, main to isolation. That’s how this concept took place,” she defined.
The retrofitted Kia Carens can accommodate six people, together with one wheelchair consumer. Key options embody a two-meter rear ramp for simple entry, wheelchair restraints with retractable tie-downs, seat belts for all passengers, and spacious interiors to guarantee consolation.
Dr. Sohliya revealed that the challenge was made potential by means of a kickstart grant from PRIME Meghalaya and help from Well being Minister Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh. Regardless of these contributions, private funds have been additionally used to full the modifications. She emphasised the vehicle’s position as a pilot challenge. “If discovered useful, we hope the federal government acknowledges its potential and expands the fleet. Past transportation, we wish to handle accessibility in locations like non secular establishments, social hubs, and eating places,” she acknowledged.
At the moment, residents can ebook the vehicle by calling 708-523-5036. Plans for app-based reserving methods are in improvement because the initiative scales. The introductory fare will stay comparable to normal journey prices to guarantee affordability.
Particular Visitor Rinalin Nongdhar, a wheelchair consumer from Bethany Society, expressed gratitude: “It is a nice step in the direction of accessibility. It’s empowering for folks like us. I recognize Dr. Sohliya and her household for this initiative.”
Nevertheless, she additionally highlighted broader accessibility challenges in Shillong, together with unsafe roads and the shortage of accessible footpaths. “If the federal government implements accessible footpaths, it might remodel our expertise,” she added.
Dr. Sohliya and others current underscored the necessity for presidency intervention to scale such initiatives. She remarked, “Whereas different states like Delhi and Bangalore have related autos, we will stand out by bettering accessibility, particularly for vacationers with disabilities. This could improve our picture as a welcoming state.”
The occasion, attended by representatives of assorted organizations, additionally featured Chief Visitor Rev. Dr. R.R. Cunville and Particular Visitor Rev. Terence Wanshong, who lauded the initiative.
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