Maharashtra civic body election: Accessibility issues at Thakurli polling centre cause hardship for seniors and disabled voters

A senior citizen and a disabled voter climb a flight of stairs to reach the polling booth; Gautam Aware after being helped by mid-day correspondent to find transport home. PICS/SHRIKANT KHUPERKAR

Serious accessibility issues were reported at the Thakurli polling centre located at Mahila Samiti School, causing hardship to senior citizens and persons with disabilities on election day. The school premises, which resemble a hill station-like terrain, pose difficulties for voters approaching from the Khambalpada side, where they are required to climb nearly 30-35 steps.

Despite this, political party volunteers and on-ground staff failed to guide senior citizens and disabled voters appropriately. Autos, too, were not directed to the front of the school, from where vehicles could get close to the polling booths. As a result, voters with mobility issues were forced to struggle unnecessarily.

A disabled voter struggles to navigate the uneven ground

A disabled voter attempting to reach Booth No. 34 was seen repeatedly asking for help. The absence of a proper ramp further worsened the situation. This correspondent personally helped the voter reach Booth No. 34.

When contacted, Polling Officer Rajendra Pakhale stated that two ramps were available on the other side of the school premises. Regarding the difficulty faced by voters going to Booth No. 34, he assured that his team would immediately look into the issue and ensure that no differently-abled voter would face any inconvenience.

At the entrance of the school, another disabled voter, Gautam Aware, complained that there was no assistance and that he was unable to find an auto-rickshaw. Upon his request, this correspondent approached the Thakurli traffic department staff to arrange transport. Anusaya Satish Karle, a traffic constable from the Dombivli Traffic Department, promptly intervened and arranged an auto for the voter.