Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (VP)

Mangaluru, Jun 30: Elderly residents are facing significant challenges due to the lack of available seats on buses in the city. The bus route running from State Bank to Panjimogaru, Kulur, Kavoor, and Surathkal includes reserved seating for the elderly and disabled, but these seats often remain inaccessible due to overcrowding by younger passengers. Negotiating the crowded buses has become a daily struggle for the elderly, who find it difficult to board amidst the rush.

The issue extends beyond the buses themselves to the bus stops. Crowded conditions at bus stops make it hard for elderly passengers to reach the buses in time. Compounding the problem, buses frequently fail to stop directly at the designated stops, requiring passengers to rush and potentially risking accidents, particularly hazardous during the rainy season.

One elderly passenger expressed frustration, stating, "City buses are typically packed during morning and evening rush hours, leaving us without seats. Now, bus stops have become places where people wait, as buses often stop either behind or ahead of the designated stop, forcing us to chase after them. This situation can lead to serious injuries, especially in bad weather. Buses do not wait for passengers who are slightly late, even for just a few minutes, which adds to the difficulty."

Another elderly individual highlighted the lack of seat reservation policy, noting, "We've relied on city buses for travel for a long time. However, as we age, it becomes increasingly challenging to rush and climb onto crowded buses. Seats are reserved for women, but there's no similar provision for senior citizens or the handicapped. This needs to change to ensure fairness."

The elderly residents emphasised that addressing these bus-related challenges requires public education. They believe younger passengers should be encouraged to offer seats to elderly and disabled individuals voluntarily, as is often seen with students. This compassionate attitude, they argue, needs to be cultivated among the younger generation to improve overall bus etiquette and accessibility.

The city administration and transport authorities are urged to consider these concerns seriously and work towards implementing solutions that prioritize the needs of elderly and disabled bus passengers, thereby fostering a more inclusive and safer public transport environment for all residents of Mangaluru.