VELLORE, FEB 17
Union Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Dr. S Govindaraj launched the Swarga Foundation’s ‘Sarathi’ minivan, the special vehicle, at GRT Regency here on Monday. In his inaugural address, Dr. S Govindaraj, said, “This is an exemplary service and needs to be replicated all over the country. And it is the advantage of scientific advancement to enhance the consumer service.”
“The vehicle is a wheelchair-accessible transportation service for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PwD). In a record of sorts, it’s Vellore’s first wheelchair-friendly and senior citizen-friendly travel service, aiming to provide accessible and comfortable transportation for persons with disabilities and elderly passengers,” said Swarnalatha J Managing Trustee, Swarga Foundation.
- This is an exemplary service and needs to be replicated all over the country: Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Dr. S Govindaraj
- The first vehicle was launched in 2016 for persons with disabilities (PwD) to travel across the country in Tamil Nadu: Swarnalatha J Managing Trustee, Swarga Foundation
- Passengers can avail of this service by calling 7397700482
Speaking with navjeevanexpress.com, Swarnalatha said, “The first vehicle was launched in 2016 for persons with disabilities (PwD) to travel across the country in Tamil Nadu. The van has a ramp, sofa bed, two bucket seats, a chemical toilet, wash basin, kettle, temperature controls and a television. The new version is smaller and for intercity services. Smaller lanes and roads can be accessible with this new minivan. Since its inception 1,264 have utilised this special service, which is a record in the country’s transport industry.”
She further added that “Sarathi Mini, introduced by Swarga Foundation, is designed to provide a seamless and safe travel experience. The specially equipped vehicle includes a dedicated wheelchair parking space and a foldable ramp for easy access. This service will be operated by persons with disabilities, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to empowerment and inclusion. Passengers can avail of this service by calling 7397700482.”
Key Projects and Achievements
- Sowkhya Pain Rehab Clinic: Providing over 15,000 therapy sessions in physiotherapy, Ayurveda, and counseling. (Beneficiaries: 16,351)
- Twinkle in a Wrinkle: Adoption of six government-run senior citizen homes, offering medical and physiotherapy support. (Beneficiaries: 6,540)
- Swastha: Outreach camps focused on pain-free living and wellness. (Beneficiaries: 752)
- Lakshya: Training 15 para-shooters for Paralympic competitions. (Beneficiaries: 15)
- Suraksha: Home-based palliative care services, including nursing, rehabilitation, and physiotherapy. (Beneficiaries: 60 families)
- Samarth: Supporting underprivileged families with education, assistive devices, and healthcare. (Beneficiaries: 35 lakh individuals, 100+ families)
- Iceberg: Conducting over 350 awareness programs, reaching 10 million people.
- Sugamya: Making police stations, government schools, and railway stations accessible in Coimbatore. (Beneficiaries: 50 million)
- I’m Special Calendar: Featuring differently-abled achievers to promote inclusion. (Outreach: 50,000+ people)
