President Zardari urges enhanced accessibility for PWDs in public spaces, services

ISLAMABAD, Oct 14 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday has emphasized the need for improved public accessibility to help the persons with disabilities (PWDs) live independently, seize new opportunities and actively engage in society.

In a message on the occasion of International White Cane Safety Day being observed on Oct 15, the president extended his greetings and best wishes to persons who are blind or partially sighted, their families and organizations working for their welfare and empowerment.

“The white cane is an important mobility aid that enables persons with visual disabilities to move safely and independently. It can make a real difference in their ability to access education, employment, public services and other aspects of everyday life,” he added.

The president said the day reminded them that independent mobility also depended on the environment in which people live, adding safe roads and footpaths, accessible public transport, buildings, educational institutions and workplaces are essential if persons with disabilities are to participate fully in society.

The president also appreciated the Government of Sindh for establishing the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), a dedicated department dealing with the rehabilitation, empowerment and welfare of persons with disabilities.

Similar dedicated institutional arrangements in other provinces could help ensure sustained and coordinated attention to disability-related matters, he stressed.

The president said the modern technologies and artificial intelligence were creating new opportunities for persons with visual disabilities. At the same time, the white cane remained a simple, reliable and essential tool for independent mobility.

He also commended the Pakistan Association of the Blind and other organizations for their continued efforts to promote the rights, safety and independence of persons with visual disabilities.