Rains finds insights into Taj Mahal poor accessibility

Rolling Rains links to an interesting first-hand account of the inaccessibility of one of the world's most recognizable buildings, India's Taj Mahal. The article, from Disability News India, is by C. Mahesh and is well worth a read (you have to check out the photo of so-called ramp 3). My favorite aspect of Mahesh's article comes right at the end. Despite laying out how futile an up-close visit to this famous building would be for most people with severe mobility problems, Mahesh refuses to surrender to the idea that the Taj Mahal just isn't worth the effort. "And finally whatever might be the shortcomings -- never miss an opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal," Mahesh writes. In other words, work to overcome the obstacles, but don't give them permanence by accepting the situation as hopeless. If everyone stays home, nothing will ever improve because there will be the impression that no one uses accessibility accommodations. (Photo by Marc Shandro via Flicker with this license.)