Differently-abled woman reaches home on wheelchair for first time
For the first time in her life, Santosh Kumari, a differently-abled woman from Chadol village in Shri Naina Devi constituency, reached her home on a wheelchair on Wednesday, thanks to the district administration’s efforts in constructing an eight-foot-wide concrete road leading to her house.
Born with a 78 per cent disability, Santosh had always relied on her parents to move in and out of her home. Recalling her struggles, she shared that attending school seemed impossible, but her mother’s determination ensured she received an education and learned basic computer skills. However, the greatest challenge came when she needed to travel for medical treatment and essential errands. With no road access, her mother often carried her on her back for 150m uphill to reach the nearest pathway.
Years ago, Santosh left her village to work with the Red Cross Society and started living in a women’s hostel in Bilaspur town. Due to the lack of road connectivity, she never returned home — until now.
When Bilaspur Deputy Commissioner Abid Hussain Sadiq learned about Santosh’s ordeal, he assured her that she would soon be able to reach her home independently. The Block Development Officer was assigned the task and Rs 4.5 lakh was sanctioned for constructing a 120-m-long concrete road to her house. With the completion of the project, Santosh can now travel home without any hindrance.
Speaking to the media, DC Abid Hussain Sadiq emphasised the administration’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring they have access to basic infrastructure that allows them to live with dignity and respect.
Before returning home, Santosh visited the DC’s office, where she was honoured by the DC. He also assured her that she would soon be provided with an electric scooter to further enhance her mobility. Expressing her gratitude, Santosh said, “The DC has fulfilled his promise and now I can visit my home without any difficulties. I am deeply thankful to the district administration for this life-changing support.”
