The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) might ply low floored buses for convenient access of physically-challenged passengers, however, it looks like they have forgotten about the requirements of passengers at bus stations.
The Karnataka High Court had earlier directed the state government to allocate funds, make available minimum infrastructure facilities including ramps and toilets facilities for the physically challenged in all public places, government institutions, schools and colleges.
However, when City Express visited BMTC at Kempegowda Bus Station, the scene was disturbing to say the least.
The toilets constructed ‘specially’ for physically challenged people was found locked. The unhygienic conditions of the toilet, poor sanitation and irregular water supply raised quite a few eyebrows.
Aside from these issues, there was no alarm facility in the toilet. These alarms are necessary in case of emergency.
On the contrary, this toilet which is not accessible for physically challenged is used by higher officers. According to a source from BMTC, there is a toilet on the first floor for the staff. However, when some higher authorities visit KBS, the toilet constructed for physically challenged will be opened specially for them.
“Otherwise, on a normal day, it will always remain closed,” said the source.
To top it all, there is a ramp constructed for free wheelchair movement. But the door leading to the ramp is always closed, thus making it impossible for physically challenged people to use the ramp.
D Simha Raj, Member of Technical Audit Committee, Commission of Disability said that according to Persons with Disabilities Act (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) 1995, the State Government has to provide facilities like ramps and toilets for the disabled in all buildings. But the officials of BMTC have violated the law by locking the toilet and the door that leads to the ramp.
“Cleanliness should be maintained at all bus stations. We will take serious action against them,” he warned.