The Punjab government has once again announced an initiative to support Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) by launching a Rs1 billion programme that focuses on enhancing mobility for PWDs across the province and providing access to essential support equipment, in a bid to demonstrate that “physical limitation does not equate to a lack of ability”.
The largest empowerment drive for PWDs till now, the initiative seeks to distribute assistive devices free of cost including manual, electric and motorised wheelchairs, tricycles, walking aids, mobile toilet chairs, joystick-controlled chairs, hearing aids and artificial limbs, etc. The programme has also identified significant gaps to account for.
Like in the past, PWDs have been excluded from exercising their democratic right to vote, owing to inaccessible infrastructure in polling stations. They face increasing difficulty in securing stable jobs, as organisations lack the appropriate training required to facilitate auditory and visual impairments. And they have been socially barred from public spaces due to lack of mobility accommodations.
So, while things look good on paper, what remains to be seen is whether the plan will be translated into action. The issue of lack of accessibility in the country has been acknowledged multiple times before, with supporting acts and policies, but substantial implementation is yet to be seen.
For instance, the Punjab Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2022 calls for modification of all new and existing infrastructure and vehicles to allow PWDs ease of access in public facilities, public transport and roads. While the act was introduced with much vigour, it lacked adequate monitoring and implementation that would meaningfully benefit a large population and help them fulfil their potential.
The government needs to ensure that this Rs1 billion promise — aimed at driving nationwide change towards more inclusive and equitable values — is implemented in letter and spirit.
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