Kolkata Police Launches Comprehensive Ramp Construction Initiative
In a significant move to enhance accessibility, the Kolkata Police has initiated the construction of ramps at all its police stations across the city. This directive comes directly from Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar, aiming to facilitate better access for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Ensuring Justice and Dignity Through Infrastructure
Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Rupesh Kumar emphasized the importance of this project. "Ramps are being built at all police stations to ensure that senior citizens and individuals with disabilities can have improved access and find it easier to approach duty officers," he stated. Commissioner Sarkar elaborated on the broader objective, highlighting that the initiative is designed to make police stations accessible to those who might face higher risks of injury when entering older buildings.
"Constructing ramps at Kolkata Police stations is not merely an infrastructure upgrade; it is a fundamental necessity for justice and dignity," Sarkar explained. "For the elderly and disabled, a police station often serves as the first point of contact for seeking protection or reporting grievances. If the building itself is inaccessible, the law effectively closes its doors to them."
Current Progress and Future Goals
According to police officials, ramps are already available at 25 out of the 80 police stations in Kolkata. Work is actively underway at the remaining 55 locations. Among these, ramps have been completed at 35 police stations, while construction is ongoing at 20 others. This phased approach ensures a systematic rollout across the city.
Community Response and Advocacy
Priyanka De, a disability rights activist and member of the Wheelchair Users Association of West Bengal, welcomed the move, albeit with cautious optimism. "It has taken a decade to initiate ramp construction. We remain skeptical until we see tangible results, but if such a major step is being executed, we wholeheartedly welcome it," she said. De also stressed the importance of compliance, noting, "The ramps must meet the parameters specified in relevant laws to be truly effective."
Shyampukur resident Dipankar Chatterjee, aged 81, expressed relief at the development. "As an elderly person, a ramp will definitely make it easier for me to enter a police station," he remarked. Chatterjee also suggested further improvements, adding, "The next step should involve making toilets more accessible to ensure comprehensive inclusivity."
Broader Context and National Alignment
At Lalbazar, police headquarters officers clarified that the ramp initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance accessibility in public-facing facilities. This aligns with similar measures undertaken by police departments in other regions, such as Pune and Tamil Nadu. The move also resonates with central government discussions on modernizing police station infrastructure.
A concept paper titled 'Revised Standards for Modern Police Station Buildings-2015' has been circulated to states, union territories, and central armed police forces for feedback, underscoring a national push toward improved police infrastructure. This Kolkata initiative exemplifies a proactive step in that direction, prioritizing inclusivity and equal access to justice for all citizens.
