Government is set to begin a nationwide initiative to make buildings and public places easily accessible to persons with disabilities, Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has revealed.
The Minister made these remarks during the fourth forum of the 'Ahaa' series, through which the government provides direct answers to citizens' questions which was held on Saturday evening.
Minister Aishath Shiham pointed out that some buildings, parks and public places have been constructed with limited to no disability access, but said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has made some key policy decisions to address the issue.
In that regard, the Minister said the relevant authorities have now been instructed to make necessary changes to new and existing buildings easily accessible to persons with disabilities, adding that the effort to make these changes will begin very soon.
“President Dr Muizzu has decided and instructed to formulate plans to make all buildings under construction and public parks wheel-chair accessible and be made more accessible for the physically challenged. Existing buildings have also been instructed to bring the necessary changes,” she explained.
The Minister also acknowledged the numerous concerns received from islands throughout the Maldives over limited disability access to building and public areas, adding that the government will work with the local councils to implement these changes across the country.
She said the government is working hard to protect the rights of people with disabilities through changes to the relevant laws and regulations.
The government meanwhile is also working to complete the "National Register of Persons with Disabilities" to gather essential information for providing necessary assistance. As of November last year, over 13,600 individuals have registered.
This initiative aims to ensure that people with disabilities can fully participate in society and access basic services, addressing the need for accurate data to support them effectively.