Ramps to aid disabled access beach

CHENNAI: Among Chennai’smain attractions are its beautiful beaches. However, they remain inaccessible to many differently-abled people. That’s why Raindropss, a youth-based social organisation that spreads social awar-eness through entertainment and media, is organising its ‘Reach the Beach’ initiative for the second time. On December 2, it will literally roll out the red carpet for the disabled, setting up a temporary ramp on Elliot’s beach, so they can easily access the sands.

Another NGO, Disability Rights Alliance India, will set up a temporary pathway on Marina Beach from December 3 to 7.

“We will be laying plywood from the road to the sea shore and then lay a red carpet over it. Our volunteers will help push the wheelchairs,” says Aravind Jayabal, founder and creative head, Raindropss, adding that funds have been raised with the help of their friends and patrons.

Aravind was inspired to launch the initiative last year after seeing the challenges disabled people face in their daily lives. “My father Jayabal as well as our trustee Arun Loganthan are both differently abled and they are both achievers. My father is a retired administrative officer who has served 36 years in the TN public health department while Loganathan is a magician who has won several awards,” says Aravind.

However, simple things like commuting or travelling around the city is a challenge as there are not enough ramps. “And going to the beach is a simple pleasure everyone wants to enjoy, so I wanted to make the beach accessible to everyone,” he says, adding that the event last year was an emotional experience for many. “We would like to make this a monthly event but lack sponsors,” says Aravind.

Raindropss has associated with TamilNadu Udhavikaram Differently Abled Welfare Association for the occasion. “We are expecting a minimum of 100 participants,” says Aravind, adding that the event, which falls before International Day of Persons With Disabilities, observed on December 3, is open to all. “We need volunteers to assist the participants.”

Participants will assemble at 3pm and the initiative will be flagged off by Raadhika Sarathkumar at 4pm at Besant Nagar Beach (near Hotel Thalappakatti) in the presence of music director and Goodwill Ambassador of Raindropss A R Raihanah.