High Court Moved for Making UPSRTC Buses Accessible to Visually Impaired: PIL Filed by Disability Rights Groups

Lucknow. In a significant legal development, two leading disability rights organizations. All India Confederation of the Blind and the National Association of the Visually Handicap have filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court, seeking urgent directions for full implementation of accessibility measures in all buses operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC).

The PIL, filed under Article 226 of the Constitution, highlights the State’s failure to fulfill its statutory obligations under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the accompanying Rules of 2017. The petitioners allege that UPSRTC has systematically failed to incorporate essential accessibility features in its transport services, thereby violating the fundamental rights of persons with disabilities particularly those with visual impairments.

According to the PIL, UPSRTC buses lack basic infrastructure such as low-floor buses, level boarding platforms, Braille and audio signage, and staff training to assist visually impaired passengers. The absence of these features severely restricts the independence, mobility, and dignity of disabled individuals, directly contravening Sections 3 and 41 of the RPWD Act, 2016, and Rule 15 of the 2017 Rules.

The petitioners submitted that despite multiple representations and a formal legal notice sent on February 12, 2025, no substantial steps have been taken by UPSRTC. While a subsequent internal communication from the Additional Managing Director of UPSRTC acknowledged some concerns, tangible action remains lacking.

Citing the Supreme Court’s judgment in Rajiv Raturi vs. Union of India, the petition underscores that accessibility is a fundamental right and not a privilege. The apex court had categorically held that public infrastructure must be made inclusive within a reasonable timeframe, and the failure to do so amounts to discrimination.

The petitioners have urged the High Court to issue a writ of mandamus directing the UPSRTC and the State Government to:

1. Ensure time-bound compliance with Section 41 of the RPWD Act and Rule 15 of the Rules.

2. Implement specific accessibility features mentioned in the legal notice including tactile signage, audio announcements, priority seating, mobile app accessibility, and a grievance redressal mechanism.

3. Submit a detailed action plan with timelines for implementation.

4. Respond formally to the petitioners’ legal notice with a reasoned order.

The case is expected to set a precedent for the enforcement of accessibility norms in public transportation across Uttar Pradesh and potentially influence nationwide policies.

The PIL has been filed through Advocate Shwetabh Singh, and the matter is likely to be listed for hearing in the coming weeks.