Ensure accessibility norms in Kisama facelift — SCPD directs Nagaland Tourism department

DIMAPUR — As the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama is being subjected to a complete revamp ahead of the 25th edition of Hornbill Festival, the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) Diethono Nakhro has issued an order directing the department of Tourism to ensure strict adherence to all accessibility norms and standards.

A press release on Wednesday informed that the order was issued in the aftermath of a suo motu inquiry and inspection of the venue.

To this end, the SCPD Court issued a number of recommendations: reserved parking spaces for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in an area closest to the main entrance; designated safe area within the village for drop-off and pick-up for PwDs; ramps, pathways and lifts/vertical platform lifts wherever necessary in the main arena, performance stage, VIP and spectator galleries; accessible seating options, including wheelchair user areas, in the VIP and spectator galleries; and the performance stage, green rooms and dressing rooms must all be made accessible.

It further directed the department to ensure that all other ongoing constructions, including the Bamboo Pavilion, strictly adhere to established accessibility norms and provisions.

“The existing ramp at the Heritage Bamboo Hall and new ramp installed at the renovated adjoining rooms must be rectified on priority by improving the gradient, width, attachment of hand railings and installation of non-slip tiles. Ramps and pathways with surface continuity, connecting different ground levels must be provided wherever necessary—both outdoors and indoors.

“The gradient, size and surface of the ramps must be constructed as per the Harmonised Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India, 2021. The ramps and pathways should be barrier-free. There should be no obstructions such as water pipes, drainages, potted plants, etc over the ramps and pathways,” the order stated.

In places where construction of ramps are impossible, lift facility must be provided, it added.

“Tactile guiding pathways and colour contrast on staircases should be provided throughout. As with all machineries, breakdowns and malfunctions occur with lift systems as well. As such, service/maintenance crew should be made available for maintenance of the lifts. It should be understood that this also pertains to serious safety concerns,” it stated.

The SCPD Court noted that the toilet block provided in one corner of the Village is neither efficient nor sufficient. “Accessible toilets should be made available at regular points throughout the village to ensure convenient access for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups,” it stated and suggested providing an accessible toilet or at least two unisex accessible toilets in a cluster of every 4-5 tribal houses/morungs and blocks.

“All buildings must have at least one accessible toilet. Necessary directives must be issued by the respondents to the concerned departments/agencies to this effect. The accessible toilets and utilities must be constructed as per the specifications provided by the Guidelines which include the various heights for installation of washbasins, grab-bars, knee space, faucets, mirror, toilet accessories, type of doors handles, doors size, ramp gradient, etc.,” it reminded.

The court also suggested to the department to adopt a well-coordinated, consistent approach to signage throughout the premises.

“Directional signage and way-finding maps should include raised or tactile letters, high contrast colours, and Braille or tactile symbols. Signage should also be provided for evacuation plans and exit routes in case of emergencies. A disability Help Desk should be provided at a strategic location,” it added.

Also read: Hornbill Festival preparations in full swing at Kisama Heritage Village