Alappuzha: In an effort to raise awareness about the need for accessible public spaces for people with disabilities, a group of five people, including a Malayali, will embark on a 6,000 km journey across India. Among the group is P. A. Sooraj from Kodungallur who will travel from Delhi to Dhanushkodi via Goa and return via Andhra Pradesh, completing the journey in 20 days. Their mission is to point out the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing major tourist spots and public spaces that are often not wheelchair-friendly.
The journey will begin at the end of December, and the group hopes to inspire change by showing that public spaces, including ATMs, tourist spots, and transport facilities, must be accessible to everyone. Their route will cover 12 places: Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Delhi.
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Sooraj's personal struggle and mission
Sooraj is the general secretary of the Voice of Disabled organisation. He works in the paper products industry. Sooraj, who has lost mobility below the waist due to a spinal injury, will drive a three-wheel scooter for the journey. While Sooraj is capable of driving the scooter, he needs assistance to get on and off it from his wheelchair. To support him on the trip, his wife Soumya will accompany him. Sooraj has previously participated in the 2,500 km Kargil Ride.
Accessible India Campaign
Their journey is part of the Accessible India campaign, initiated by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. The department has sanctioned Rs 9 lakh for the expenses. A reception will be held at each state, organised by respective NGOs.
Published: 07 Nov 2024, 08:15 am IST
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