Persons with disabilities to get free OPD slips, 50% fare relief in KP
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Adviser for Social Welfare, Ushr, Zakat and Women Development Malik Liaqat Ali Khan has announced several measures to make public services more accessible to persons with disabilities.
He said the provincial government was taking practical steps to address the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities in different parts of the province.
The adviser said efforts were being made to improve access to basic facilities in government departments, hospitals, educational institutions and public transport.
The measures are aimed at reducing the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities when using essential public services.
Free OPD slips announced at hospitals
One of the major announcements was that persons with disabilities would not have to pay any fee for OPD slips at hospitals. The decision is expected to reduce some of the financial burden on people who need medical treatment and regular healthcare services.
Malik Liaqat Ali Khan also said special seats would be reserved for persons with disabilities in public transport. In addition, they would receive a 50% concession on public transport fares.
The measures are intended to make travelling easier and more affordable for persons with disabilities, particularly those who regularly need to visit hospitals, government offices or educational institutions.
Rehabilitation centre to be activated in Shangla
The adviser also announced the activation of a rehabilitation centre in Shangla. The centre is expected to provide support to persons with disabilities in the district and help improve access to rehabilitation-related services.
The announcement came during a special open court organised by the Social Welfare Department in Shangla. The event was held to give persons with disabilities an opportunity to directly raise their concerns with government officials.
Persons with disabilities raise key concerns
A large number of persons with disabilities attended the open court. Participants presented their problems directly to the adviser and the district administration.
They raised concerns about the shortage of schools and educational facilities for children with disabilities. They also spoke about difficulties in obtaining Himmat Cards, Sahara Cards and Ehsaas Cards.
Participants said they faced problems accessing services and facilities at government offices and hospitals. They called for better arrangements so that public buildings and government services could be accessed without unnecessary difficulties.
Demand for implementation of job quota
Participants also demanded the implementation of the 2% job quota for persons with disabilities.
They said employment opportunities should be made available in line with the existing quota. They also called for improved accessibility at public institutions.
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Better access to government buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions and other public services was among the issues discussed during the meeting. The demands highlighted the wider challenges faced by persons with disabilities beyond healthcare and transport.
Adviser orders action on complaints
Malik Liaqat Ali Khan issued instructions for the immediate resolution of several issues raised during the open court.
He said other complaints would be addressed on a priority basis. The adviser directed officials to ensure that persons with disabilities did not face unnecessary problems while accessing government services.
He also stressed the need for departments to respond to their complaints and provide the required facilities. The government’s approach is focused on improving access to public services while addressing problems raised directly by affected citizens.
Special data collection campaign announced
The Social Welfare Department also announced a special campaign to collect comprehensive data on persons with disabilities in Shangla. The campaign is expected to help authorities understand the number of persons with disabilities in the district and identify their needs.
Accurate data can also help government departments plan welfare, healthcare, education and rehabilitation services more effectively. The initiative is part of broader efforts to identify gaps in public services and improve support for vulnerable groups.
Child Protection Unit inaugurated
During his visit to Shangla, Malik Liaqat Ali Khan also formally inaugurated a Child Protection Unit at the Social Welfare Office. The unit was established with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The facility is intended to strengthen child protection services in the district and provide support through the relevant government system. The inauguration was another part of the adviser’s visit, which focused on social welfare and public support services.
Government focuses on better public access
The announcements in Shangla cover several areas, including healthcare, transport, rehabilitation, employment and access to government services.
Free OPD slips and reduced transport fares could provide direct financial relief to persons with disabilities. At the same time, the proposed improvements in public institutions and the rehabilitation centre are aimed at making services more accessible.
The concerns raised at the open court also show the need for continued attention to education, employment and welfare cards. Government officials have been directed to address the issues raised and ensure that persons with disabilities can access public services without unnecessary barriers.
