Taken from Times of India.
MUMBAI: Early this month, one of the many malls in Thane, along with the Xavier's Resource Centre for the Visually Challenged (XRCVC), launched an audio-tactile labelling system to help blind shoppers at the mall. Antarchakshu is supported by the IBA (Indian Banks Association) and is a SightSavers initiative that focuses on eye health, awareness, and research surrounding visual impairment. XRCVC is a support and advocacy centre which works towards the holistic development of visually challenged people.
India has one of the largest visually-impaired populations in the world and so, this was done with the aim of providing a variety of accessibility solutions to its visually challenged customers. This endeavour was a part of the XRCVC's and Viviana Mall's effort to build a more inclusive milieu for the visually challenged. The mall has been supporting this cause since last year, with the 'EYE Ride" campaign.
The unique feature of these user friendly audio-tactile labels is that they give the visually impaired shopper the option of 'reading' the shop names either with their fingers or ears. The experience has also been designed to reinforce the message that the visually challenged lead an independent, successful and fulfilling life.
"The central idea of this endeavor is to ensure that visually impaired patrons get to enjoy the mall experience with total independence, just like the sighted," according to Dr. Sam Taraporewala, director, XRCVC. "This is an ongoing effort at making public places meet universal design standards," he added.
Ketan Kothari from Sightsavers, a blind visitor to the mall, had this to say about the concept, "For the first time coming to a mall was a truly enriching experience as I could enjoy all the facilities available in the mall without seeking much assistance. I hope that this encourages all public places to make their facilities equally accessible."
The authorities will also be conducting a major awareness and sensitisation workshop (AntarchakshuTM - The Eye Within) on February 20th and 21st 2015 at the mall, where participants will be given a unique eye-opening experience with their eyes.
Source: Times of India.
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