Let’s all be fair here, the world is not built to accommodate the differently-abled. Am I right or am I right? For example, most places are not accessible by wheelchair. I don’t think the college I went to had a wheelchair ramp either. The point is, the world does not accommodate the differently-abled enough for them to move about independently and with confidence. This was extremely evident with the video Sudhaa Chandran posted to her Instagram. Her video was an appeal to PM Modi as she spoke about how humiliating and inconvenient it is when she is asked to remove her artificial leg each time she goes to the airport. She had requested PM Modi to look into the same. Days after this video hit the ‘Gram, the government has issued a draft of guidelines to create more accessibility for the PWD (Person With Disability).
The ministry has asked for advice and suggestions on this draft for three weeks which will be looked into and the final guidelines will be released. PWD might have designated parking spots that are closer to the airport terminal. Moreover, they might also be adding earmarked spots for pickups and drops. Wheelchair-accessible check-in counters will be made available as well. Additionally, there will be more accessible toilets too.
Security check lines will have lanes added for men and women with disabilities. There have also been guidelines added as to how the airport security be more sensitive and respectful of flyers with prosthetics. According to TOI, the draft states that such passengers would be “taken to a private screening point and made to sit comfortably… will receive additional screening, including a pat down. If necessary, screening thorough explosive trace detector (ETD) will be adopted. While dealing with the prosthetic device and during taking off and putting clothes, the privacy of passengers to be maintained.”
Also Read: Actress Sudhaa Chandran’s Tone-Deaf Remark Implies That Pay Parity Is Not An Issue. So It’s Okay That Women Are Paid Less?
Baggage claims will also have earmarked spots for the PWD (Person With Disability) as the space will be highlighted using the universal symbol for the disabled. The draft also advises such passengers to inform the airline 48 hours in advance so they can be served better and with more sensitivity. The draft also advises airlines to have PWD section on their websites for information helpful to such passengers along with the option to book a wheelchair. Airlines have also been asked to put their safety instructions in braille and to also add sign language to the safety videos. “For embarkation and disembarkation and inflight use, aisle chairs/small wheelchairs should be carried on board for flights longer than three hours,” the draft says.
Guidelines have also been added to security. Information given in advance will allow the airport to be prepared. Devices such as crutches can be x-rayed separately.
It is amazing to see genuine and prompt action being taken after the video appeal by Sudhaa Chandran. We are taking a step in the right direction as not only are we being more compassionate and accommodating towards the PWD but also giving them the means to feel comfortable being independent.