In a major boost to inclusive tourism, ramps have been added to battery-operated vehicles transporting visitors to the iconic Vijaya Vitthal Temple at Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ramps, installed at the rear of the electric vehicles, are designed to help wheelchair users board with ease, ensuring that differently-abled tourists can conveniently reach the historic temple complex and enjoy its celebrated architecture and artistry.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Nongjai Mohammed Ali Akram Shah stated that the decision was taken after observing the challenges faced by differently-abled visitors in Hampi.
He noted that instructions had previously been given to the taluk panchayat executive officer to use the remaining funds from the 2018–19 scheme to facilitate the installation of ramps. Of the 20 battery-operated vehicles operated by the Hampi World Heritage Area Management Authority, six have been equipped with ramps so far. The move has been widely appreciated by the public and members of the differently-abled community, who hailed it as a positive step towards making tourism in Hampi more accessible.