Hello Local Guides
On Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2026, I had the opportunity to attend a meetup and share my experiences on accessibility 
with fellow Local Guides.
Since 2019, accessibility has been one of the factors I consider while reviewing places on Google Maps. If a place is not accessible, I mention it in my review and may reduce my rating one 
because accessibility matters to everyone.
A big thank you to @Anil6969 Veerji for organizing the session. It was inspiring to hear Local Guides from India and across the world share their efforts to make the world 
more accessible . Listening to everyone’s experiences helped me understand how small actions can make a big difference.
Accessibility is not just about having a lift 
. The lift and entrance should be wide enough for a wheelchair to enter and move comfortably.
In my own family and neighborhood, I have seen the challenges firsthand. My niece, my friend’s sister, and my top-floor neighbor are all blessed individuals who use walkers and crutches for mobility. They often find it difficult to climb steps because many buildings are still not fully accessible . Their experiences have made me more aware of the importance of inclusive infrastructure.
A recent positive accessibility experience was at Anantam Hospital Kalyan West .I noticed a wheelchair-accessible ramp next to the emergency room entrance. The hospital also has spacious lifts with doors opening from both sides, allowing stretchers and wheelchairs to move comfortably.
During my visit to DN Nagar Metro Station, I observed that there are many steps, then escalators and lifts are available for passengers who need them.
At Andheri Metro Station, I was impressed by the wide lifts with doors opening on both sides, making movement easier for wheelchair users. I also saw a person with a disability independently using an accessible mobility bike , which was inspiring to witness.
Caption: Andheri metro station.
I have also noticed that some residential buildings, places of worship, and public places have lifts that are too narrow for wheelchairs. Even when a lift is available, true accessibility depends on whether it can be used comfortably and independently.
Let us continue creating awareness, sharing accessibility information on Google Maps, and encouraging inclusive design so that everyone can move with dignity, confidence, and independence.
#GAAD2026 accessibility #LocalGuides #GoogleMaps #AccessibleIndia #WheelchairAccess
