The Heartwarming Story of an 89-Year-Old Making Noida More Accessible

 R. N. Pasrija standing beside a cycle rickshaw equipped with his innovative low step design, demonstrating its ease of use for passengers.

In the lively city of Noida, India, where the sounds of rickshaws fill the streets and life moves quickly, there’s a heartwarming story unfolding. It’s the story of RN Pasrija, a retired engineer who has dedicated his life to making transportation safer and more accessible for elderly people and those with mobility challenges.

A Heart of Gold, a Mission of Mobility
At 89 years old, RN Pasrija is not your typical retiree. Instead of taking it easy, he has taken on a new mission: to help seniors and others who struggle to get in and out of cycle rickshaws an important form of transport in Indian cities. His journey started with a simple observation. He noticed his friends hesitating to use rickshaws because of the high step required to get in and out. This worried him deeply.

“I saw my friends having a hard time using rickshaws,” Pasrija recalls. “It broke my heart. I knew I had to do something.” This moment sparked a passion within him to create change.

The Rickshaw Challenge: A Senior's Struggle
Cycle rickshaws are everywhere in India, providing an affordable way for people to travel. However, they can be difficult for elderly passengers to use. The steep step needed to enter these vehicles can lead to falls and injuries, making many seniors reluctant to ride them. For many older adults, the fear of falling is greater than the convenience of using a rickshaw.

Pasrija saw this issue as not just a design flaw but as a serious safety concern that could keep elderly people from getting out and enjoying life.

  R. N. Pasrija's innovative low step design installed on a cycle rickshaw, demonstrating improved accessibility for passengers.

A Simple Solution
With his background in engineering, Pasrija set out to find a solution that was both practical and affordable. His idea was straightforward: add an extra step or leg rest on cycle rickshaws. This small change would make it easier for passengers to get in and out, reducing the risk of falls.

The cost? Only ₹500 (about $6 USD) a small price for safety and accessibility.

A Community United: Lending a Hand, Sharing the Joy

Pasrija knew he couldn’t do this alone. He reached out to friends, local rickshaw drivers, and community members, sharing his idea and asking for help. The response was amazing; people were eager to support this worthy cause. With donations coming in and volunteers ready to lend a hand, Pasrija began putting his plan into action.

He started by installing these extra steps on several rickshaws in Noida. As he worked alongside local drivers, he saw the difference his efforts were making. Elderly passengers who had previously avoided rickshaws began using them again, their faces lighting up with happiness and relief.

More Than Just a Step: Restoring Freedom, Inspiring Change
The changes brought about by Pasrija’s work have had a wonderful effect on the community. More elderly people are now using cycle rickshaws, which has also helped drivers gain more customers. The added step has become a symbol of safety and inclusion showing what can happen when one person takes action.

Pasrija’s efforts have sparked important conversations about accessibility in public transport throughout Noida and beyond. His work reminds us that even small changes can make a big difference in people’s lives.

A Legacy of Kindness: Inspiring Generations to Care
RN Pasrija’s story is a powerful reminder that age is not a barrier to making a difference it is an opportunity for new beginnings. “It’s never too late to create change,” he says, proving that passion and purpose can drive impact at any stage of life. His simple yet effective innovation has not only made transportation more accessible for seniors but has also sparked a larger conversation about inclusion and community-driven change.

This spirit of empowerment is at the heart of Sukoon Unlimited, a platform dedicated to helping seniors lead independent and fulfilling lives. Just as Pasrija’s efforts restore mobility and confidence to elderly passengers, Sukoon Unlimited provides a space for seniors to explore new passions, build meaningful connections, and continue making an impact. His journey is a testament to the idea that every stage of life holds the potential for transformation, contribution, and new possibilities.

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