NCRTC Initiated Assistive Aids Distribution Drive for differently abled

Ghaziabad-The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has launched an assistive aids distribution drive for differently-abled individuals residing nearby Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor. This initiative aims to enhance their mobility, accessibility, and independence, enabling them to navigate daily life with greater ease. The drive is being organized in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific (JFPR). 

This is the first drive of distribution of assistative aids to differently abled. Similar initiatives will be organised in future.

The event was held at Ghaziabad RRTS station, where NCRTC Director (Finance) Mrs. Namita Mehrotra and Director (System & Operations) Shri Navneet Kaushik distributed smart canes, hearing aids, and crutches to approximately 130 differently-abled individuals. These assistive devices were thoughtfully selected through a survey by the team of disability experts to meet individual requirements, ensuring the most suitable support for these beneficiaries.

This initiative not only supports mobility and accessibility but also plays a crucial role in the empowerment and employability of differently-abled individuals. By providing assistive devices that enhance independence and ease of movement, the program enables individuals to engage more actively in society and the workforce. With improved access to transportation, daily activities, and workspaces, differently-abled individuals can pursue job opportunities that may have previously been inaccessible. Empowered with the tools to navigate their environment with confidence, these individuals can realize their potential and participate fully in economic and social activities.

NCRTC has been committed to make RRTS stations and Namo Bharat train services universally accessible. This initiative marks a significant step toward this goal. These assistive aids will improve the quality of life for differently-abled individuals by fostering greater mobility, accessibility, and social inclusion.

To aid visually impaired commuters, dedicated tactile paths have been provided at stations, guiding them along the shortest and most intuitive routes to key areas, minimizing confusion and enhancing their independence.

Additionally, specially designed spacious lifts have been installed to accommodate not only wheelchairs for differently-abled individuals but also stretchers to address the medical needs in emergency as well. Ramps, multiple lifts and escalators are strategically placed at entry/exits to provide seamless access to concourse and platform levels, ensuring an easy and hassle-free journey for all commuters, including the elderly, children, and women. In the Namo Bharat trains, seats are reserved for the women, elderly and differently-abled people in every coach. Additionally, a train attendant is deployed in every train to assist the commuters. These measures reflect NCRTC's unwavering commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and delivering a better commuting experience to every commuter.

Details of the devices provided:

Smart Cane: A smart cane is an innovative assistive device designed to enhance mobility and independence for visually impaired individuals. Unlike traditional canes, it incorporates advanced features such as ultrasonic or infrared sensors to detect obstacles at various heights, including head-level, and provides alerts through vibrations or sound cues. Ergonomically designed to be lightweight and often foldable for convenience, smart canes offer customizable sensitivity settings and are powered by rechargeable batteries for extended use. By enabling users to navigate complex environments with confidence and safety, smart canes significantly improve accessibility and independence, making them an essential tool in inclusive transit systems.

Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to improve hearing for individuals with hearing loss, enabling them to perceive sounds more clearly and participate actively in daily life. These devices amplify sound and are tailored to the user’s specific hearing needs, enhancing their ability to communicate and interact in various environments. Modern hearing aids come in discreet designs and are equipped with advanced features like noise reduction, directional microphones for better focus on speech, and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration with smartphones and other devices. Powered by rechargeable or replaceable batteries, hearing aids are vital in promoting accessibility and inclusivity, particularly in public spaces such as transit systems, where clear auditory input is crucial for safety and convenience.

Crutches: Crutches are mobility aids designed to assist individuals with limited ability to walk due to injury, disability, or medical conditions. They provide support, stability, and balance by redistributing weight from the legs to the upper body, helping users move independently. Available in various types, such as underarm crutches, forearm crutches, and platform crutches, they cater to different mobility needs. Modern crutches are lightweight yet sturdy, often made from materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, and feature ergonomic handles and cushioned grips for enhanced comfort. Adjustable height settings ensure proper fit and posture, minimizing strain.