GCC Plan to Replace Marina Beach Wooden Ramp With Plastic Mats Sparks Criticism

The Greater Chennai Corporation’s (GCC) decision to dismantle the permanent wooden accessibility ramp at Marina Beach and replace it with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) ground mats has drawn sharp criticism from persons with disabilities and rights activists. Activists argue that the replacement compromises independent beach access for wheelchair users, elderly individuals, and people with mobility impairments.

The 263-meter-long and three-meter-wide wooden ramp was inaugurated in November 2022. Built at a cost of Rs 1.14 crore using multiple hardwood varieties, including Brazilian timber, the structure was the state's first permanent wooden beach accessibility ramp.

Disability rights activists stated that the original wooden ramp provided stability and featured handrails, allowing users to navigate the beach independently. In contrast, they contend that the proposed HDPE mats are less stable and often require users to seek assistance, defeating the purpose of an accessible public space.

R Sathish Kumar, a disability rights activist, pointed out that the anti-slip strips on the mats cause wheelchairs to jerk, making movement uncomfortable. He noted that the absence of handrails further limits independent movement. Paediatrician and activist Aiswarya Rajyalaxmi added that the ramp had become a city fixture after years of advocacy and should not be dismantled.

Vaishnavi Jayakumar of the Disability Rights Alliance mentioned that the hardwood was expected to last at least 30 years. She said activists had suggested several maintenance solutions, such as rebuilding the support grid, installing post shoes, strengthening the base with sandbags, and making the sea-facing deck detachable before cyclones, but these recommendations were not considered.

According to GCC officials, the decision to replace the ramp was made because the wooden structure had begun to decay. GCC Commissioner GS Sameeran stated that the wooden structure was not feasible to maintain in the long run, noting that it was breaking and creating hurdles for users.

To address concerns, Sameeran said the GCC will provide handrails for the new pathway and modify the grip buds on the HDPE mats to ensure a smoother ride. The GCC has invited stakeholders for a discussion on Monday to identify further design improvements.