SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2024
Team Herald
PANJIM: The Office of the State Commissioner for Person with Disabilities and Office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and representatives from the disability community jointly conducted a comprehensive access audit of polling booths to assess the availability of facilities for voters with diverse needs.
In a significant step towards inclusivity, a series of measures have been put in place by the Election Office to facilitate accessible voting for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in the State on polling day on May 7.
The joint effort ensured that polling stations were thoroughly evaluated for compliance with accessibility standards, including the presence of ramps, tactile materials, and other essential amenities.
At present, 9,423 PwDs have been identified on the ERONET.
Eight polling booths specially designated to be manned by PwD employees. Transport facilities have been arranged to cater to the needs of PwDs and senior citizens, with 30 e-rickshaws accessible for persons with disabilities, ensuring smooth transit to and from polling stations. Infrastructure at the polling station has been upgraded to accommodate the diverse requirements of voters, with all 1,725 booths across North and South Goa located on the ground floor for ease of access.
Priority entering facilities, separate queues for PwDs and senior citizens, and the provision of 1,069 additional wheelchairs ensure that no voter faces barriers on polling day.
