Chennai: To improve accessibility for people with disabilities, Greater Chennai Corporation has introduced balloon wheelchairs at Marina and Besant Nagar beaches. These specially designed wheelchairs, fitted with large, soft tyres, allow users to move over sand and reach the shoreline without difficulty.As part of the Blue Flag beach project, the corporation has procured 10 such chairs and received six so far. “Two are placed at Marina beach, two at Besant Nagar, and the remaining are reserved for the Blue Flag zone,” said GCC commissioner J Kumaragurubaran.The chairs were trialled in collaboration with disability rights activists. Activist G Karunagaran said beach access has long been a challenge. “Every time I crawl on the sand, it feels too heavy to move. These chairs will truly help people like us. It’s always been a dream to move across the sand and experience the beach fully,” he said.Balloon wheelchairs are built with aluminium or stainless steel frames and have wide, low-pressure tyres that roll over sand with ease. Some models come with waterproof, UV-resistant fabric, removable footrests and armrests, and adjustable backrests to provide better comfort.The initiative aligns with the larger Marina Beach redevelopment plan to meet Blue Flag certification standards. A 50-acre stretch near Anna swimming pool is being upgraded with shaded seating, bamboo loungers, play areas, meditation platforms, observation towers, outdoor gyms, and clean walkways. The Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded to beaches that meet high criteria for safety, cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and accessibility. The new zone is expected to be inaugurated by deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin soon.