Tandem cycle donation lets visually impaired person to join global inclusion fest

In a unique initiative under its EKYA Programme promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion, the Rotary Club has donated a tandem cycle to Sharath, a visually impaired employee of a public sector bank.

The donation from the Rotary Club of Bangalore Northwest, the Rotary Club of Bangalore Oasis, the Rotary Club of Turvekere, and individual donors, will enable Mr. Sharath to cycle from Bengaluru to Goa to participate in the International Purple Festival, scheduled from October 9 to 12.

“This project aims to empower visually impaired individuals by enhancing mobility, independence, and social inclusion,” said Lakshmi Achuta, president of Rotary Club of Bangalore Northwest.

Mr. Sharath expressed his gratitude, saying that inclusive programmes by the rotary and other organisations create awareness and drive social change.

The initiative is in collaboration with Inclusive Strides, a group of visually impaired individuals and volunteers promoting outdoor accessibility. The cycling journey will involve two visually challenged participants accompanied by four able-bodied captains on tandem cycles.

The International Purple Festival in Goa, hosted by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and supported by the Union government and United Nations India, celebrates inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for people with disabilities.