World-Map-Explorer

World-Map-Explorer – Maps are no longer unfamiliar to the visually impaired

World-Map-Explorer is the world’s first web application designed to help visually impaired individuals learn about the world and understand maps. Developed on the OpenStreetMap platform, the application has been released as free software. With screen reader support and audio assistance, the map is freely available for anyone to use at https://map.zendalona.com/

The application was developed by Jyothir Adithya P, Azhar Abdulla C K, Athuldas S, and Saju Suresh — students of the Computer Science Department at Government Engineering College, Sreekrishnapuram, Palakkad — with the support of Zendalona, an organization working for the visually impaired.

Until now, tactile maps — which can be physically touched and felt — were the primary resource for visually impaired learners. Since existing digital map systems could not be easily used with keyboards and screen readers, World-Map-Explorer marks an important breakthrough in accessibility.

The map portal was officially launched on 18 March 2025 at a function held in the chamber of the Minister for Higher Education and Social Justice (Govt of Kerala), Dr. R. Bindu, in the presence of Ottapalam MLA Adv. Prem Kumar. The event was also attended by Zendalona representatives K. Sathyaseelan, Nalin Sathyan, Mukundhan Annamalai, Reji Joseph, Kavya, Vinod B (President, Kerala Federation of Blind Youth Forum), and Manoj Karingamadathil(OpenStreetMap Kerala & Sahya Foundation).