Hampi Takes Major Step Towards Inclusive Tourism with Accessible Electric Vehicles
In a landmark move to promote inclusive tourism, the historic city of Hampi in Vijayanagara district has installed ramps on battery-operated vehicles used to ferry tourists to the iconic Vijaya Vitthal Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is now significantly more accessible to differently-abled visitors, particularly wheelchair users, thanks to this thoughtful initiative.
Enhancing Accessibility for All Visitors
The installation of additional ramps at the rear of these electric vehicles enables wheelchair users to board with unprecedented ease and comfort. This development ensures that persons with disabilities can fully experience the architectural and artistic grandeur of the historic temple complex without facing the physical barriers that previously limited their access.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Nongjai Mohammed Ali Akram Shah explained that the initiative was undertaken after careful observation of the difficulties faced by differently-abled tourists visiting Hampi. "We recognized the need to make our tourism infrastructure more inclusive," Shah stated, highlighting the administration's commitment to accessibility.
Strategic Implementation and Funding
The project was executed using remaining funds from the 2018–19 scheme, with specific directions issued to the taluk panchayat executive officer to prioritize ramp installation. Out of the twenty battery-operated vehicles managed by the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority, ramps have been successfully installed in six vehicles so far, marking a substantial beginning to this accessibility enhancement program.
Community Response and Future Implications
The initiative has drawn widespread appreciation from both the general public and members of the differently-abled community. Many have welcomed this effort as a crucial step toward making tourism in Hampi more inclusive and accessible to all visitors, regardless of physical ability.
This development not only improves the visitor experience for differently-abled tourists but also sets a positive precedent for other heritage sites across India to follow. By prioritizing accessibility, Hampi reinforces its status as a destination that values all visitors and their right to experience cultural heritage without limitations.
