Lift Location Sparks Concerns Among Havelock Road Residents
Residents along Havelock Road are expressing their frustration over the location of a lift that was intended to make life easier. 76-year-old Chen Miuxuan recently shared her experience with 8world, explaining that she has to climb two flights of stairs just to reach the lift. This lift connects to an overhead bridge that leads to Jalan Kukoh, right next to a bus stop on Havelock Road.
Challenges for the Elderly
For many elderly residents like Chen, navigating these stairs can be quite a challenge. She voiced her concerns about the difficulties faced by those carrying heavy bags or using crutches. “I’m getting old, and my knees just can’t take it anymore,” she lamented.
During a recent visit to the overhead bridge, it was clear that the stairs are a struggle for many. Several elderly individuals were seen gripping the handrails tightly as they made their way up and down. To reach the bus stop across Jalan Kukoh, residents must descend 28 steps and then climb another 23 steps to access the lift, amounting to a total of 51 steps.
“White Elephant” Lift
Some residents have even labelled the lift a “white elephant”—an expensive project that doesn’t serve its purpose effectively. Wong, another elderly resident from block 2 Jalan Kukoh, expressed his frustration: “We have to climb up and down the stairs just to use the lift. Many of us are old, and our legs can’t handle it. The design really didn’t consider our needs.”
While some, like 43-year-old Ahmad, find the stairs manageable, he acknowledges that the elderly may struggle. Another resident pointed out that the estate mainly consists of older individuals, and even younger residents find the stairs challenging. The staircase connecting Jalan Minyak and Jalan Kukoh, with over 60 steps, has also drawn complaints.
Plans for Improvement
In response to these concerns, the Jalan Besar Town Council has announced plans to build a ramp connecting Jalan Kukoh to the lift. They are currently seeking approval to start construction, aiming to begin in the first quarter of 2024 and finish by the third quarter, depending on weather conditions. The council noted that the lift was built with resident feedback in mind, and a ramp was added in front of the lift to assist wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
Inclusivity Matters
This situation presents a valuable opportunity for the Jalan Besar Town Council to enhance accessibility for elderly residents. However, it’s important to consider the needs of all individuals with disabilities. A ramp would not only help the elderly but also benefit parents with strollers and those recovering from injuries.
To ensure that the ramp meets the diverse needs of the community, the town council could conduct a thorough accessibility assessment. This assessment should focus on the requirements of individuals with various disabilities, including visual and hearing impairments.
Engaging with disability advocacy groups and gathering community feedback will also be crucial in designing a ramp that truly serves everyone. By adopting a more inclusive approach, the town council can ensure that the new infrastructure benefits all residents, making Havelock Road a more accessible place for everyone.