SHANGLA: Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister for Social Welfare, Ushr & Zakat and Women Development Malik Liaqat Ali Khan has announced measures to improve access to public services for persons with disabilities, including exemption from hospital OPD slip fees and half-fare travel on public transport.
Speaking at a special open kutchery in Shangla, the adviser said the provincial government would work to ensure facilities for persons with disabilities at government offices, hospitals, educational institutions and public transport.
He announced that persons with disabilities would no longer be charged OPD slip fees at hospitals. He also directed the district administration to hold consultations with transporters to introduce designated seats for persons with disabilities in public transport vehicles and provide them with a 50 percent fare concession.
Malik Liaqat also announced the activation of the Rehabilitation Centre in Shangla and directed relevant officials to address issues faced by persons with disabilities on a priority basis.
A large number of people with disabilities from across the district attended the open kutchery and raised concerns about limited facilities, accessibility at government hospitals and offices, and difficulties in obtaining Himmat, Sahara and Ehsaas cards.
Participants also highlighted the lack of schools and educational facilities for children with visual and hearing disabilities and called for effective implementation of the two percent employment quota for persons with disabilities.
The adviser listened to the complaints and ordered the immediate resolution of several issues, while directing officials to ensure that persons with disabilities do not face unnecessary difficulties in accessing government services.
The Social Welfare Department also announced a campaign to collect comprehensive data on persons with disabilities across Shangla to help improve service delivery and planning.
Officials further briefed the adviser on welfare programmes in the district. Under the Widow Fund, 305 of 321 registered widows had received Rs. 60,000 each, while ration had been provided to 102 of 193 beneficiaries under the Mustaqbil Ration Card programme.
During his visit, Malik Liaqat also formally inaugurated a Child Protection Unit operating at the District Social Welfare Office with support from UNICEF. Officials briefed him on the unit’s establishment, services and child protection measures.
The participants welcomed the announced measures and called for continued open kutcheries and practical initiatives to address the long-term needs and rights of persons with disabilities in Shangla.