Dubai // Like hundreds of other city residents, Arshad Mehmood, 39, was thrilled after taking the maiden Metro trip for "golden ticket" winners on Wednesday night. He was also probably the first person in a wheelchair to use the new service. Speaking in an interview yesterday, the self-employed Indian described the service as "thoughtful and nicely planned" and promised to encourage more physically disabled people to use it.
There were only "one or two minor obstacles", said Mr Mehmood, a resident of Bur Dubai. "While boarding the train the wheels do get stuck a bit, I think probably on the edges. You might need someone to help you through this." Mr Mehmood won the "golden ticket" after sending a video to the Roads and Transport Authority about facilities required for people on wheelchairs. He was invited by RTA to take the first trip, from Nakheel Harbour and Tower station, along with other winners.
Once inside the Metro station, he noted, the specially marked areas and space for people with special needs was satisfactory. "Inside the train there are clear wheelchair signs where I could park and there was enough space," he said. "It was very thoughtful and nicely planned." At each station the point of entry included a separate door to punch the ticket for those in wheelchairs or mothers with children.
"I noticed that even the ticket counter was low and I did not have to lean over," he said. Elevators were available everywhere. Stricken with polio as an infant, Mr Mehmood is paralysed from the waist down. But he completed his education and even gained a driver's licence in 1992. "I have never let my disability stop my progress," he said. "However, driving in such bad traffic is difficult for me and I would prefer the Metro."
He urged other people in wheelchairs to use the Metro, but advised: "You might need a little help while getting off or on the train." pmenon@thenational.ae
