Delhi not a disable-friendly city

Delhi may claim to be a world class city but it lacks basic disabled-friendly infrastructure, a study has found.

The study, conducted by non-organisation Samarthyam in some of the city's busiest places such as Connaught Place, Sarai Kale Khan, Nehru Place and Lodhi Road, found that street infrastructure was missing.

Some of the major problems the NGO found at Connaught Place were lack of proper signages and audio signals, non-continuity of tactile pavers and pelican crossings, Press Trust of India (PTI) reported.

The study found that Sarai Kale Khan Inter State Bus Terminus, a key terminus having proximity to Nizamuddin railways station, lacked connectivity between footpaths.

Footpath height and width varied at many places, there was lack of kerb ramps and no pedestrian crossing in front of the terminus, open drain exists on footpaths which are often encroached by hawkers.

Similar problems were encountered at the busy Nehru Place, considered India's largest grey market of computer goods.

"It is important that street infrastructure be accessible, safe and dignified for all irrespective of age, gender and disability," said Anjalee Agarwal, director of Samarthyam.

"The first goal of the study was to work with stakeholders in the implementation process -- architects, engineers, planners, contractors, public agencies and government departments -- to inform and educate them about the need for access and safety," she said.

Parthaa Bosu, India representative of Clean Air Initiative for Asian Cities, said: "It is ironical that while investment in improving public transport is increasing every year, little is being done to improve accessibility to terminals like bus stop and railway stations."