Click to play videoMumbai: Over last year, the Bombay High Court has passed repeated orders favouring disabled people in the city. But despite these efforts, is Mumbai giving disabled people their due?
Many like Neenu Kewlani are successful, but what she really wants to be is independent. She works at a leading accounting firm and says she wants to travel to work on her own - on a bus or a train.
However, Polio doesn't give her that independence. And Mumbai's transport system isn't helping. "To change the whole city is an uphill battle. It's been five years and we're still struggling," says Neenu.
Mumbai's railways say they're disabled-friendly. They even have signs for disabled people. But how does someone like Neenu get into the train station?
Getting into the station doesn't get her very far. There's no ramp, and she can't lift her wheelchair to get onto the train. She's often stuck at the entrance of one compartment, asking her maid to check the disabled compartment.
"I'm not saying we want a separate train altogether. But we can't suffer for the rest of our lives, or be victimised," she resents.
For many like Neenu, every step is a battle when they're confined to the chair. Their options for travel are expensive and limited. However, BEST's wheelchair-friendly buses are a boon for people like Neenu.
The 84 Limited that runs between Andheri and Hutatma Chowk, is one such bus, complete with ramp and railing. There was only one problem: it isn't so easy to find it.
The frequency may leave something to be desired, but Neenu is still hopeful. "At least there's one positive step in this direction compared to the railways where there's no hope," she says.
Neenu's idea of a perfect world can be found at a shopping mall. Shoppers' Stop at Juhu has ramps, clear signage and even an elevator. "This is at a pretty decent height. Otherwise they're always so high," says Neenu as she puts her hand up to the elevator control.
And best of all - the mall has a trial room where she can try her new clothes. "This is amazing. I've never used a trial room in my life. Shopping is going to be an amazing experience."
Optimistic as always, Neelu says that one day people like her will be able to get out of their houses, and do our own thing, just like guys.
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