Opinion India @75, Looking at 100: Accessibility is for everyone

Sminu Jindal writes: Making India accessible by 2047 for everyone requires prioritising accessibility in infrastructure and policy

Sminu Jindal writes: Accessibility is a fundamental human right, but it's often overlooked in our daily lives (File)

Sminu Jindal

April 26, 2023 07:38 AM IST First published on: Apr 19, 2023 at 06:00 AM IST

In an ideal world, equal access to opportunities and experiences would be a fundamental right for all, regardless of differences such as age, gender, mental and physical state, and cultural background. However, the reality is that many individuals with reduced mobility face significant challenges in navigating daily life. Accessibility is essential for everyone, not just for people with reduced mobility. It empowers individuals to break through barriers that limit their potential and creates an environment that enhances convenience and opportunity.

Reflecting on my life, I realise the importance of accessibility. It took a car accident at the tender age of 11 years, which left me spinally injured, for me to actually understand the need for, and the significance of, accessibility. I wish it had been a topic of conversation from a young age, so my family and I could have avoided learning through trial and error. Even today, we overlook design flaws that limit our mobility and safety. Small solutions, like adding a yellow strip at stair nosings and enhancing visibility in low-light conditions can make all the difference for people with visually reduced mobility. Unfortunately, accessibility is not always included in architecture or engineering colleges, leaving those who learn the hard way with significant costs. However, we at Svayam are working towards raising awareness about the transformative impact of accessibility on people’s lives.

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The proportion of elderly (over 60 years old) people in India is expected to increase from 8.6 per cent in 2011 to 12.5 per cent by 2030 and almost 20 per cent by 2050. Currently, due to inadequate infrastructure, elderly individuals who expect to enjoy their lifelong savings are unable to do so. Unexpected challenges like temporary injuries can also confine us indoors. Japan’s current situation is a prime example of what can happen when accessibility is not taken into account. Retrofitting infrastructure for the elderly has cost the country both time and money. However, as India turns 100 in 2047, it has the opportunity to proactively address accessibility issues. We have a history of revolutionary thinking and innovation. Just as we witnessed during the Covid-19 pandemic, web accessibility cannot help us get through prolonged isolation. By prioritising accessibility in infrastructure and transport, we can help people lead empowered lives and become active contributors to society.

Accessibility is a fundamental human right, but it’s often overlooked in our daily lives. We should all strive to see beyond physical differences and treat everyone with empathy and respect. This includes learning how to interact with people with reduced mobility and understanding their needs. As individuals, we can make a difference by being responsible and respectful when using public spaces, such as not misusing parking or sitting areas or using toilets designated for people with reduced mobility. We can also prioritise those who need it most, such as the elderly, wheelchair users, pregnant women, or children, and help make public spaces more accessible for all.

Imagine a future where accessible infrastructure empowers us to lead fulfilling lives regardless of our limitations. The joy and happiness it would bring are immeasurable. That’s why as India experiences rapid infrastructure growth, it is worth investing in an accessible environment. When people have the freedom to choose how they want to live their lives, they become more productive and contribute more to society.

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Imagine a world where people can retire or pursue their passions without being held back by poor infrastructure. Eventually, every individual stepping out of the house and spending money contributes to the economy. So instead of seeing someone with reduced mobility as vulnerable, empower them with proper access; they will be breaking the glass ceiling.

Making India accessible by 2047 for everyone requires collective effort. This includes installing ramps with railings and guardrails in our housing communities and refraining from parking in front of ramps. Moreover, as a nation, it is crucial that we prioritise accessibility in our infrastructure development and policies. It is not just a matter of meeting legal obligations, but rather a means of providing equal opportunities for all and ensuring full participation in society.

India has an unwavering commitment to humanity, which sets us apart. As the world’s largest democracy, we have a unique opportunity to lead the way in making accessibility a fundamental human right. By prioritising accessibility, we provide opportunities and also position ourselves to become a superpower. Together, we can create a barrier-free world that offers equal access to basic necessities and growth opportunities for all.

The writer is managing director, Jindal SAW Ltd and founder chairperson, Svayam. This article is part of an ongoing series, which began on August 15, by women who have made a mark, across sectors