RampMyCity is Transforming Public Spaces for Disabled Individuals in India

How often do we actually see ramps and special access for disabled people in our country? The answer is hardly any, even in so-called urban cities with 1000s of coffee shops but zero ramps. In India, the pursuit of inclusivity for disabled individuals remains a significant challenge. Despite legislative efforts and increasing awareness, many public spaces are still inaccessible to those with mobility impairments. RampMyCity, a pioneering startup from Bengaluru, led by Prateek Khandelwal, is stepping up to bridge this gap. The initiative focuses on making urban environments more accessible, aiming to create a world where everyone, regardless of physical ability, can navigate public spaces with ease and dignity.

The Need for Disabled-Friendly Architecture in India

According to the Accessible India Campaign, approximately 2.68% of India’s population, or about 2.68 crore people, live with some form of disability. This demographic includes individuals with mobility impairments, visual impairments, and other physical challenges that can make navigating public spaces difficult. The campaign highlights that accessible physical environments not only benefit disabled persons but also enhance the quality of life for everyone by improving access to essential services such as transportation, medical facilities, and workplaces.

Despite these statistics, reality often falls short. A 2023 column emphasised that many public spaces in India lack basic accessibility features like ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets. This oversight excludes a significant portion of the population from fully participating in societal activities and accessing public amenities.

A Game Changer in Urban Accessibility

RampMyCity was founded by Prateek Khandelwal, an entrepreneur driven by a vision to create inclusive urban spaces. The startup aims to address the accessibility shortcomings in Indian cities by focusing on public infrastructure improvements. The initiative began with a goal to make urban environments more navigable for people with disabilities, and has since grown into a movement advocating for better urban planning and inclusive design.

Key Achievements

Since its inception, RampMyCity has made significant strides. The startup has been instrumental in the implementation of wheelchair-friendly ramps, accessible restrooms, and other critical modifications in public places. For instance, the company has successfully worked on several projects in Bengaluru, enhancing the accessibility of public buildings, parks, and transportation hubs. According to a report, RampMyCity’s efforts have led to noticeable improvements in the city’s inclusivity, setting a precedent for other regions to follow.

Impact and Community Feedback

RampMyCity’s impact extends beyond mere infrastructure changes. By partnering with local government bodies, businesses, and community organisations, the startup has fostered a culture of inclusivity and awareness. According to news outlets, the startup’s initiatives are creating ripple effects, inspiring other cities to adopt similar practices. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the tangible improvements in their daily lives and the newfound ease of accessing public spaces.

The Need for Advocacy

Despite the progress, RampMyCity faces challenges, including limited funding and bureaucratic hurdles. However, the startup remains committed to its mission. Future goals include expanding their reach to more cities, advocating for nationwide policy changes, and continuing to innovate in the field of accessible urban design.

By addressing the practical needs of disabled individuals and working towards creating universally accessible spaces, the startup is setting new standards for urban planning in India. As the movement gains momentum, it brings us closer to a future where public spaces are truly accessible to all, reflecting a more inclusive and compassionate society.