At just 14, Pratik Shingare is making a big difference in Pune and beyond. After a road accident left him reliant on a wheelchair, he started StairlessJourney—an initiative that verifies and maps truly accessible places, helping wheelchair users explore public spaces without fear or guesswork.
- Pratik’s accident at 13 highlighted key accessibility challenges.
- StairlessJourney verifies and maps over 50 wheelchair-friendly locations.
- The initiative empowers mobility-challenged individuals with reliable access info.
What happened
When 13-year-old Pratik Shingare experienced a serious road accident, he suddenly found himself navigating Pune from a wheelchair. Everyday details like steps at entrances and narrow doorways became barriers that limited his freedom. Even returning to his school was denied due to safety concerns, turning his world isolated and uncertain.
Pratik also lives with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition causing brittle bones and frequent fractures. These challenges opened his eyes to the many hidden hurdles faced by people with mobility issues—issues often overlooked by city infrastructure and public spaces claiming to be accessible.
Why it feels good
Instead of remaining limited by these obstacles, Pratik channeled his experience into building StairlessJourney, an initiative that verifies and maps genuinely accessible places across Pune, Goa, and Kolkata. Now wheelchair users and caregivers can check real details before they visit, reducing fear and uncertainty.
Followers of StairlessJourney share stories of newfound freedom. Knowing exactly which places can be accessed safely boosts confidence and encourages stepping out more often. For Pratik, this journey from isolation to advocacy has been deeply healing—turning personal hardship into a beacon of hope and practical help.
What to enjoy or watch next
Looking ahead, Pratik and StairlessJourney are developing a dedicated website to expand their reach and usability. Meanwhile, Pratik is pursuing his education through open schooling, aiming to return stronger despite earlier setbacks. His story and work continue to inspire communities across India.
For those interested in accessible travel and inclusive urban design, StairlessJourney offers a model of grassroots impact. It reminds us all how small acts—like sharing verified information—can empower people to reclaim independence and joy in everyday journeys.