Maa Ula, a different initiative for the differently abled
Posted on: 26/Nov/2018 3:23:57 PM
India being a very populous country with over 2.68 crore people, the opportunities for the differently-abled is quite less. Nonchalant about the resistance, there are many such men and women who have foreseen a colorful future for themselves - thanks to Mr. K. Balaji for making such an initiative - ‘Maa Ula’. The 34-year old creator has innovated a Bike Taxi service in Chennai. All the drivers working for them are physically challenged in some way or the other.
At the age of 19, Balaji unfortunately lost his legs. He strived to be independent though. He went on for work, but ended up being seen indifferent by his colleagues. He says he tried his hands on a corporate job, but that did not give him the expected pleasure or satisfaction. I’ve cried almost all the days and felt dejected, he adds. He transformed his entire life on 7th of January last year where he shaped up ‘Maa Ula’.
He had the routine of dropping his yoga teacher back home after his daily sessions. One fine day the idea of ‘Maa Ula’ sparked when his teacher suggested him to offer rides to other people as well! It was then that Balaji had joined hands with Mohammed Gadaffi, the co-founder of Maa Ula where Maa stands for Maatru Thirvanaligal (Differently abled) and ‘Ula’ stands for a happy journey.
As of now, Maa Ula has 5 drivers working for them of which 2 of them are working full time. There are a few problems in the service: a few people even treat the drivers like beggars.
Charges:
Coming on to the charges, it starts at a minimum fare of Rs 25 and for every additional kilometer, the price is Rs 10 extra.
With this initiative, the differently abled in India can find an exciting time and career. The way in which they are treated will get changed.
Balaji says his life has got considerably transformed after this initiative. This makes me feel so comfortable in life. I also wish to make others happy through this. Chennai – I believe the city will embrace my initiative of Maa Ula. By next year, I eye on expanding the services with 25 such vehicles.
