The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Talking cane for the visually challenged

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Jul 14, 2008
ePaper | Mobile/PDA Version

Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Talking cane for the visually challenged

Staff Reporter

It will help them walk with confidence

‘It will make life easy by alerting them to danger through a voice recorded system’
An improvised global positioning system-fitted model is in the offing

Bangalore: A minor incident in 1998 involving a visually challenged person has inspired Wazeer to invent a talking electronic white cane. Today, after having invented eight models of the electronic white cane, seven of which are patented, Mr. Wazeer is satisfied that he has been successful in helping blind persons to move freely, with confidence.

“Ten years ago, I saw a visually challenged person slip and fall into a slushy pothole while crossing the road. As I was on the other side of the road, I could not lend a helping hand immediately. I was so moved by the accident that I promised myself that I would do something concrete to help the blind move without any fear,” Mr. Wazeer told The Hindu on Sunday.

The invention will make life easy for the visually impaired by alerting them if they are stepping on water or into a pit through a voice recorded system.

An improvised global positioning system (GPS)-fitted model, which Mr. Wazeer is working on, will guide the users on the location, road name and also on the public transport bus numbers and routes.

He demonstrated the product in the presence of Governor Rameshwar Thakur at the annual general meeting of Indian Red Cross Society’s Karnataka branch in Bangalore on Sunday. The Tumkur District Disability Rehabilitation Centre arranged for the demonstration.

“After that accident, I visited the School for the Blind run by the Siddaganga Math and got a walking stick from there to start my research. There was no looking back then.

“With financial and moral support from my friends and family members, I have been able to develop eight models of the electronic cane by spending over Rs. 28 lakh. With a patent granted for seven models, now I plan to set up a factory of electronic white canes and sell the products,” he said.

Hailing from Thymagundalu of Nelamangala taluk of Bangalore Rural district, Mr. Wazeer dropped out of school after studying up to fourth standard.

“After the patent, people from foreign countries have approached me for the technology. But I want to use my brains for the people of my country,” he said.

The Red Cross Society donated 10 white canes to the visually challenged persons. Two formally received the canes on Sunday. Mr. Wazeer trained these two persons on the proper use of the cane. He briefed them on the techniques of hand grip, arch, rhythm and wrist movement.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Karnataka

News Update

Stories in this Section