A recent incident has brought attention to the challenges faced by wheelchair users when utilizing public transportation. Bemanali Maddahi, a 71-year-old man who relies on a wheelchair, was left seriously injured while attempting to board a bus with his daughter for a regular trip to a local swimming pool. The bus driver failed to lower the bus and open the ramp properly, leading to Mr. Maddahi falling and sustaining injuries to his knee and right arm.
CCTV footage reviewed by the Public Transport Authority confirmed the account provided by Mr. Maddahi and his daughter, highlighting the failure of the bus driver to follow proper procedures for assisting passengers in wheelchairs. This incident has not only left Mr. Maddahi with physical injuries but has also shattered the family’s trust in the public transportation service, raising concerns about the safety and accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The PTA is currently investigating the matter and considering appropriate actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The case of Bemanali Maddahi serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring that public transportation systems are fully accessible and that drivers are adequately trained to assist passengers with disabilities. It is crucial that measures are in place to prevent such incidents and uphold the safety and dignity of all passengers, regardless of their mobility needs.