CMRL to roll out ramps for wheelchair users this month

Chennai Metro Rail introduces portable ramps for wheelchair users, enhancing accessibility at all platforms this month.

Wheelchair users commuting via the Chennai Metro Rail system will finally have access to a portable ramp to comfortably board the train this month.

The ramp has been one of the long-pending demands of persons with disability as the gap between the train and platform makes it difficult for them to board and alight each time.

Nearly 11 years after launch, the Chennai Metro Rail network, spanning 54 km with 41 stations, will have these portable ramps within three weeks.

Chennai Metro Rail took the initiative to buy portable ramps last year and in February, the ramps were procured and delivered in the stations across the network.

According to officials of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), 200 ramps have been procured already and distributed to the stations so that each platform has two such ramps. A small facility for hanging these ramps have to be created in all stations and the staff have to be trained on how to use it.

“As soon as a wheelchair passenger enters our station, the staff at the ticketing level will inform those at the platform to be ready to roll out the ramp when the train arrives,” an official said.