Nicosia, Cyprus. Seatrack systems installed at beaches across Cyprus to provide people with mobility disabilities safe access to the sea are being damaged through misuse, the Cyprus paraplegic organisation said on Friday.
The damage has at times prevented wheelchair users from entering the water, according to the organisation’s president, Dimitris Lambrianidis.
Equipment misuse
The Seatrack systems use rails that allow a specialised chair to enter and exit the water. They have been installed at around a dozen beaches, including in Paphos, Yeroskipou, Limassol, Ayia Napa and Protaras.
The Cyprus paraplegic organisation funded the installations, but Lambrianidis said incorrect use by members of the public was causing problems for people who depend on the equipment.
He told Reporter that a paraplegic person had been unable to enter the sea after finding a machine damaged by able-bodied beachgoers.
Damage and maintenance
Lambrianidis said some visitors sit, walk or allow children to play on the rails, despite the systems being intended exclusively for people with mobility disabilities. He said some people also lie on the rails.
The equipment requires supporting bases to be placed deep in the sand. Pressure or impact on the rails can cause structural problems requiring adjustment, while damage to the bases can leave the systems out of service during repairs.
Annual maintenance costs are around €3,000.
Municipal responsibilities
Beach management is under the responsibility of municipalities, which are expected to conduct daily checks and carry out minor maintenance.
This includes removing sand, stones and other objects that could prevent the systems from operating properly.