The Karachi Assistant Commissioner has launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at making city roads more accessible for people with disabilities, particularly those using wheelchairs. The project focuses on improving pedestrian infrastructure, ensuring that sidewalks, crossings, and public pathways meet universal accessibility standards.
Under the initiative, existing pavements will be upgraded with ramps at key intersections, tactile tiles for visually impaired pedestrians, and smooth, non-slip surfaces to facilitate easy movement for wheelchair users. Priority areas include busy commercial districts, schools, hospitals, and government offices, where foot traffic is highest and accessibility challenges are most acute.
The project also includes public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible use of pedestrian pathways, as well as training for municipal staff to monitor and maintain accessible infrastructure. Officials have emphasized that the initiative aligns with broader city planning goals to create an inclusive urban environment, enabling people with mobility challenges to navigate the city safely and independently.
In addition to physical infrastructure upgrades, the project will integrate digital mapping tools to identify and report accessibility issues, allowing authorities to respond promptly to obstacles such as uneven pavements, blocked ramps, or construction zones.
The Assistant Commissioner highlighted that this effort is part of a long-term commitment to ensuring equal mobility rights for all citizens, reflecting global best practices in inclusive urban planning. Once implemented, the project is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and set a precedent for similar initiatives across other cities in Pakistan.
