Hemani Kandhari
Jammu, June 21: Hundreds of wheelchairs reportedly procured for use during elections are lying abandoned in the open premises of Government Polytechnic College, Bikram Chowk, Jammu, raising concerns over possible damage to public property and wastage of taxpayers’ money.
During a visit to the college campus, JK News Today observed hundreds of wheelchairs stacked in an open area on the left side of the main entrance, in front of the college guest house door. The wheelchairs appeared to be in good condition and largely unused, but have been exposed to harsh weather conditions for several months.
According to sources present at the college, the wheelchairs were brought to Jammu during the election period by the Election Commission authorities to facilitate voting by Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and specially-abled citizens. The initiative was aimed at ensuring accessible polling stations and enabling voters with mobility challenges to cast their votes with dignity and ease.
However, sources claimed that after the conclusion of the elections, the wheelchairs were never taken back and have remained at the same location ever since.
“These wheelchairs have been lying here since the elections. Nobody has come to collect them,” a person present on the campus told this to JK News Today Correspondent.
Students of the college also expressed concern over the condition in which the equipment is being stored. They pointed out that the wheelchairs have already endured winter and summer seasons and are now likely to face the upcoming monsoon rains.
“Keeping such wheelchairs in the open can lead to rusting and deterioration, especially as the rainy season approaches,” a student said, requesting anonymity.
The wheelchairs, many of which appear to be brand new, are made of metal and other materials that can deteriorate if continuously exposed to rain, moisture, sunlight and dust. Observers questioned why the equipment has not been shifted to a covered government facility or warehouse for safe storage.
Sources said that since these wheelchairs were purchased using public funds, authorities should ensure their proper maintenance and utilization. They suggested that the equipment could either be preserved for future elections or temporarily provided to government hospitals, healthcare institutions, rehabilitation centres or needy beneficiaries until required again.
The sight of hundreds of unused wheelchairs lying in the open has sparked questions about accountability and asset management. Residents and students have urged the concerned departments to take immediate notice of the matter and protect the equipment from further exposure to adverse weather conditions.
