PwDs want elevators at footbridges
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 18 2025: To give Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) the freedom of unhindered movement in crossing roads, the Handicapped Development Foundation Manipur (HDFM) has raised a call to the Manipur Government to complete the construction of elevators at footbridges across the State.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, Ningombam Jayapradha, vocational coordinator, HDFM said that an increasing population has led to a rise in the number of vehicles in the roads of Manipur, which in turn, hinder the movement of PwDs.

Lauding the Government for building footbridges at Khwairamband Keithel BT Road, near Johnstone Higher Secondary School, near Little Flower School, Keishampat junction, Bir Tikendrajit International Airport gate and in front of Manipur University gate, she said that the Public Works Department had started installation of elevators a few years ago on either side of the footbridges in the interest of PwDs who face difficulty in climbing the stairs of the footbridge.

While able-bodied persons can easily climb the stairs and cross the road using the footbridges, PwDs are dependent on another individual to help them ascend the stairs, she said.

Saying that construction work on the unfinished elevators have stopped since the eruption of violence in Manipur, she also pointed out the poor condition of the lifts.

Rust damage is visible in many of the elevator doors keeping them permanently ajar.

There are also signs of vandalism including big slashes on the aluminium body of the lift.

Moreover, in some areas, the foot of the elevators have become a dumping ground where people dispose of plastic bottles, paper waste, garbage and spit paan, she added.

In view of the plight of PwDs, Ningombam Jayapradha has urged the Public Works Department to put the finishing touches on the elevators at all footbridges and give them the freedom to cross the road conveniently.

Addressing the topic of accessibility, she pointed out that footpaths in the State are usually not fitted with ramps for PwDs which limit their movement.

High footpaths also pose a barrier to PwDs, she added.

As such, she has urged the Government to fit footpaths with ramps and allow PwDs unobstructed movement and improve their access to public spaces.

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