Nagaland Civil Secretariat Complex lacks accessibility facilities for Persons with Disabilities

•             SCPD recommends series of upgrades to make the complex accessible to all

•             State government given three-month timeframe to execute the recommendations and furnish Action Taken Report by February 2024

DIMAPUR — The Court of State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) has directed the state government to ensure that the Nagaland Civil Secretariat Complex is made accessible and barrier-free for all citizens.

The order comes after an inspection of the complex on November 6 to verify whether accessibility facilities were being provided as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016, and standards as prescribed by the Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India 2021.

Following the joint inspection conducted by the SCPD team led by State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) Diethono Nakhro, along with representatives from the departments of Home, and Works and Housing, a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing accessibility standards within the complex were made.

The state respondents, including the Chief Secretary, Home Commissioner, and Principal Secretary for Works and Housing, have been given a three-month timeframe to execute these recommendations and furnish an Action Taken Report to the Court of SCPD by February 7, 2024.

The Nagaland Civil Secretariat Complex had come under scrutiny for its accessibility provisions, as per a Suo Motu Inquiry served to the Chief Secretary, the Home Commissioner, and the Principal Secretary, Works and Housing, on July 12, 2023.

The key recommendations put forth by the SCPD encompass a comprehensive approach to enhancing accessibility within the complex, including expansion of the reserved parking slots in the South Block, North Block and VIP entrance parking areas to provide greater convenience for users, observing that only two designated parking were spaces reserved for PwDs near the gate, and that too without sufficient spacing to allow free movement for an individual.

It also recommended installation of hand railings in the North Block ramp and throughout the internal and external ramps within the building. Additionally, audit of existing ramps to ensure compliance with accessibility standards, which includes checking for proper gradient, surface continuity, width, etc., was recommended.

To address weather-related concerns, another crucial recommendation suggests the addition of roof coverings or canopies over significant ramps in both the South Block and North Block, thereby protecting users from the inclement weather.

Furthermore, the removal of obstacles, such as exposed water pipes and drainages, from the outdoor ramp leading from the South Block parking area was proposed, along with the execution of necessary repair and maintenance work; installation of ramps or lift facilities to provide access to the main building from the VIP entrance (Gate No. 2), were recommended.

The SCPD highlighted the importance of efficient lift operations, stressing the need to make the second lift in the North Block operational without delay. It also observed that the lift in use at the South Block is not continuously powered during office hours, compelling users to seek electricians for activation whenever needed. This practice is not an efficient system and defeats the purpose of installing the lift facility, the court of SCPD stated. Should there a need to control the usage of the facility, lift operators should be appointed to ensure that it is fully operational during all office hours, it added.

Further, it noted that breakdowns and malfunctions of the lone functioning lift in the South Block renders the facility unavailable for weeks, causing significant inconvenience and stress to individuals who depended on it.

Accordingly, the SCPD recommended the provision of a service/maintenance team to oversee lift maintenance and ensure that any necessary repairs are carried out with greater efficiency. It should be understood that this also pertains to serious safety concerns, it added. The removal of barriers outside the elevator/lift landing and throughout the 3rd floor was also recommended to eliminate obstructions to accessibility.

At least one accessible/priority toilet facility on every floor and wing of the main building, catering to the needs of all users, was also recommended.

To facilitate seamless movement within the complex, the SCPD recommended installing ramps on the ground floor, connecting the North and South blocks and making split levels accessible.

Entry into the main conference room as well as the approach up to the stage should be made accessible, it said.

The Secretariat Plaza, where all major State functions are held, should be made fully accessible and barrier-free, including the VIP seating gallery, stated the order from the SCPD, adding that the canteen, which is an essential service, should also be made accessible.

The SCPD’s recommendations included the provision of seating areas in lengthy corridors for individuals with mobility challenges. In addition, the removal of non-essential decorations and other obstructions within the corridors was suggested to enhance ease of movement.

It also stressed the importance of implementing accessible signages and wayfinding maps at strategic locations, featuring raised or tactile letters, high-contrast colours, and Braille or tactile symbols. Tactile guiding paths and colour-contrasted staircases were proposed for installation throughout the building, alongside the provision of signage for evacuation plans and emergency exit routes.

Furthermore, the SCPD insisted on adherence to the standards outlined in the Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India 2021. Regular training and workshops were advised to sensitise officers and staff about the needs and requirements of PwDs.

It also strongly recommended the establishment of a Secretariat Accessibility Committee, responsible for ongoing guidance and advice regarding the identification, removal, and prevention of accessibility barriers within the complex. An annual accessibility audit was also recommended to ensure compliance with the Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India 2021.

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