Beach mat will allow for wheelchair access
DISABLED residents and holidaymakers will be able to enjoy a swim in the sea, or simply dip their toes in the waves, thanks to the roll-out of a mat which will allow wheelchairs to access the beach.
According to the spokesman for the KwaZulu-Natal Quad Para Association, Frank Kruger, the pilot project is a first for South African beaches, which he hopes will be implemented at uShaka Beach for the holiday season.
“This initiative is to avoid the embarrassment of disabled people being carried down to the water. The rubber mat will prevent wheelchairs from sinking into the sand,” said Kruger.
He added that the project was started a year ago when he became involved with disabled surfers.
“The most strenuous part of this activity was being carried to the water. In the US and other countries, mats to provide access to the water are common practice. When we approached eThekwini Municipality regarding the project, they were so positive and helpful,” said Kruger.
Factors such as UV and wind were considered when it came to the design of the mat, which, according to Kruger, will be rolled out every day.
Also under consideration was the calmness of the ocean.
“uShaka Beach is protected by the North Pier. We don’t want the mat to be washed away or stolen. If this pilot project works, we can look at providing the same service at beaches such as uMhlanga and Amanzimtoti,” he said.
The KZN Quad Para Association also highlighted that swimming in the ocean is good exercise for the disabled.
The eThekwini Head of Communications, Tozi Mthethwa, said the date for the roll-out had yet to be finalised.