The 2nd edition of the Blind Man Rally (BMR) will be held in the city on February 2. Organised by Round Table India, BMR is a unique initiative wherein the visually impaired actually become part of the rally by navigating the rally drivers on basis of a braille route map.
The rally will be flagged off from the Institute of Blind, Sector 26 Chandigarh and after moving around the city, would end up at the Institute itself. “The driver is unaware of the route and totally dependent on the directions given by the visually impaired student on the basis of the Braille route map. In addition, the drivers would be given instructions to maintain a particular speed for specific distances”, said Amit Jain, Chairman, Chandigarh Round Table (CRT).
There would be surprise checkpoints and the drivers would be given penalty points if they are found to be over speeding or under speeding in relation to the instructions given. The average speed of the cars is maintained around 30 kmph to 40 kmph. Three participants having the least penalty points would be adjudged as winners and suitable cash prizes would be given to them and their navigators. Participation Certificates would be given to all participants.
“It is a fun rally for a cause and participants, including women drivers, participate along with their friends and family. We expect around 100 cars to participate in this unique rally for a wonderful cause. The registrations for participation are open till January 31,” says Atul luther, BMR convener. The idea of the rally is to make the visually impaired students experience the excitement of a car rally and exhibit their skills and vision beyond the limitations of sight. The Institute of Blind, under the aegis of Major General (retd) Rajendra Nath is providing all possible support for this noble cause. The same rally is being done at 20 tabling centres across the country.