Ramps added to battery vehicles at Hampi for differently-abled

Hampi (Vijayanagara): In a significant step towards inclusive tourism, ramps were installed on battery-operated vehicles ferrying tourists to the iconic Vijaya Vitthal Temple at Hampi, a Unesco World Heritage Site.To make the electric vehicles especially friendly for differently-abled visitors, additional ramps were fitted at the rear, enabling wheelchair users to board the vehicles with ease. This initiative ensures that persons with disabilities can comfortably access the historic temple complex and experience its renowned architectural and artistic grandeur.
Zilla panchayat chief executive officer Nongjai Mohammed Ali Akram Shah said the move was undertaken after taking note of the difficulties faced by differently-abled tourists in Hampi. He added that directions were earlier issued to the taluk panchayat executive officer to utilise the remaining funds under the 2018–19 scheme for installing ramps.Out of the 20 battery-operated vehicles managed by the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority, ramps were installed in 6 vehicles so far.The initiative drew widespread appreciation from the public and members of the differently-abled community, who welcomed the effort to make tourism in Hampi more inclusive and accessible.