The Delhi government and PWD has been directed to file a status report relating to foot over bridges and other public utilities in Delhi, for assuring that persons with disabilities and senior citizens have accessibility to these pathways. A bench consisting of Acting Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi and Justice Navin Chawla has issued notice to the Centre, Delhi government, Public Works Department (PWD) and Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, regarding the matter. These agencies have been asked to respond to the petition, and the further hearing will be held on September 6.
This direction has been issues after petitioner Pankaj Mehta had submitted to the court that the state of public vertical transportation amenities such as elevators and escalators that have been installed for disabled people and senior citizens of the country, are far from convenient for their use. They, he claimed, are almost non-functional in the national capital territory, despite it being the showcase of the country, a metropolitan city and a developed geography. He has stated that the government agencies have to ensure compliance with the provisions under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 protecting the fundamental right to equality, right of freedom to move freely and right to life with dignity under the Constitution.
Source: News
