For creating a barrier free environment, use of lift for accessibility in a multi storey building is essential. Many office complexes big and small do provide this facility. This, however does not guarantee full accessibility if the lift is not in good condition. For example, if there is only one lift in an office block and unfortunately the lift was out of service and waiting for repair, how are we going to ensure free mobility for the people with disabilities? I do not realise the extend of this possibility until yesterday evening.
We were having a meeting in the second floor of MBPJ HQ and waiting patiently for a disabled member to attend the meeting. We wondered why was he so late knowing that he is always puncture for meeting. We only realised that he was unable to reach us from ground floor as the lift was out of service minutes ago. We cannot do anything to make the lift function again in short period or neither to shift the meeting venue to ground floor. At the end of the day, the disabled member has to leave the meeting before even able to participate in the discussion.
I realise that providing facilities alone is not sufficient if maintenance culture is not upkeep. No point of having wonderful and thoughtful planning without sustaining its usefulness when it is needed the most. In this respect, good maintenance culture is not only about cost saving and keeping good visual, but also to protect the interest of users. And in this case, the basic right of underprivileged group.
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