OnBoard technology helps visually impaired passengers identify KSRTC buses in Mysuru

The introduction of 'OnBoard' technology in Mysuru's KSRTC buses marks a significant stride in making public transportation truly inclusive for visually impaired individuals in India. For a long time, navigating public spaces, especially bustling bus terminals and identifying specific buses, has presented monumental challenges for persons with disabilities. This often leads to reduced independence, limited access to education and employment, and social exclusion, directly impacting their quality of life.

At its core, OnBoard is a patented radio-frequency (RF) based technology, ingeniously developed at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. The innovation aims to empower visually impaired passengers by enabling them to accurately identify and board the correct bus. The system typically involves a transmitter installed on the bus and a receiver carried by the passenger. As the bus approaches, the receiver alerts the passenger, often through audio cues or vibrations, providing crucial information about the bus number and route. This simple yet profound technological intervention bridges a critical accessibility gap.

Several key stakeholders are instrumental in this initiative. IIT Delhi, as the developer, stands at the forefront, showcasing India's prowess in indigenous innovation and problem-solving through technology. Their research and development efforts have brought this concept to fruition. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is another vital stakeholder, demonstrating a proactive approach by implementing this technology in its buses in Mysuru. As a public service provider, KSRTC's commitment to accessibility sets an example for other state transport undertakings. Most importantly, the visually impaired passengers themselves are the primary beneficiaries, whose daily lives are directly enhanced by this solution. Beyond these, the government, both central and state, plays an enabling role through policy frameworks and funding. Entities like the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment are crucial in promoting such initiatives, aligning with broader national goals of social welfare.

This development holds immense significance for India. Socially, it champions the cause of inclusion, dignity, and independence for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). It reinforces the idea that public infrastructure must be accessible to all citizens, fostering a more equitable society. Economically, by facilitating easier access to transportation, it enables visually impaired individuals to pursue educational opportunities, gain employment, and participate more actively in the workforce, thereby contributing to the nation's economic growth. Technologically, it is a shining example of the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives, demonstrating that cutting-edge solutions for social challenges can be developed domestically. It also aligns perfectly with the 'Accessible India Campaign' (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), launched in 2015, which aims to achieve universal accessibility for PwDs.

Historically, India's journey towards disability rights has evolved from a welfare-centric approach to a rights-based framework. The ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) in 2007 was a landmark step. This commitment culminated in the enactment of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPwD Act), which replaced the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995. The RPwD Act, 2016, significantly broadens the definition of disability, increases the number of recognized disabilities, and mandates accessibility in public buildings, transportation, and information and communication technology. The OnBoard technology directly contributes to fulfilling the provisions of this Act, particularly those related to accessible transport.

From a constitutional perspective, this initiative resonates with several fundamental principles. Article 14 guarantees equality before the law, implying equal access to public services. Article 21, the Right to Life and Personal Liberty, has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to encompass the right to live with dignity, which inherently includes accessibility and non-discrimination. Furthermore, the Directive Principles of State Policy, particularly Articles 38, 39, 41, and 46, lay down the state's responsibility to promote the welfare of the people, secure social justice, ensure the right to work and public assistance in cases of disablement, and promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections, including PwDs. The OnBoard technology is a tangible step towards realizing these constitutional mandates.

Looking ahead, the future implications are promising. The successful implementation in Mysuru could serve as a blueprint for scaling the OnBoard technology to other cities, states, and even different modes of public transport like trains and metro systems. This could lead to a nationwide standard for accessible public transport. Furthermore, such initiatives can inspire further research and development in assistive technologies, potentially integrating with smart city solutions, real-time tracking, and personalized navigation aids. It underscores the potential for technology to be a powerful enabler of social justice and inclusive development, pushing India closer to its vision of a truly 'Sugamya Bharat' where every citizen can participate fully and equally in society.