A Six-Year Dream of Disability Activists Is Realized at Marina Beach

It is said that the voice of the sea touches the soul and the touch of the sea is wonderful for many. Now, even the differently abled will be able to go near the sea independently as a permanent ramp has been inaugurated at Marina Beach in Chennai on Sunday. The permanent ramp is reportedly India’s first CRZ-compliant permanent ramp for people with disabilities and the culmination of a six-year dream and struggle by disability activists, including the Disability Rights Alliance (DRA) and the Municipal Corporation. The 263-meter facility was built for about Rs.1.14 crore using Babool, Red Meranti, and Brazilian wood. The viewpoint is 10 meters from the water, and it also features a handrail for people who might require assistance. Smitha Sadasivan of the DRA stated that this ramp was a dream come true for them as they had put in six years of work and coordinated with stakeholders to get the ramp constructed. She added that the ramp is a permanent facility and she is delighted that it would improve the mental health and well-being of many people. Sadasivan also hopes that an assistance booth or help desk, a beach wheelchair storage container, trained lifeguards, Mobi mats (non-slip pathways) near the viewpoint, accessible drinking water, and permanent toilets are also put in place.