Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday instructed authorities to strengthen protection of rights and improve access to essential services for persons with disabilities across Bangladesh.
He emphasised that inclusive development requires ensuring equal access to education, healthcare, transport and public facilities, and called for practical steps to build a more disability-friendly environment in both government and private sectors.
The directives were issued at a meeting held at the Cabinet Division conference room in the Bangladesh Secretariat, where officials discussed ongoing challenges and future plans related to disability welfare, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Press Wing.
The Prime Minister said persons with disabilities must be treated with dignity and their abilities recognised at all levels of society. He stressed that they should be enabled to participate actively in social, economic and state activities through supportive infrastructure and policies.
He instructed that all new buildings, including hospitals, restaurants and government offices, must include disability-friendly features such as accessible entrances, ramps, and properly designed toilets. He also said doorways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchair users.
Among other directives, he said planned electric buses for women should also be equipped with facilities for persons with disabilities to ensure safe and comfortable travel.
The Prime Minister asked the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to expand awareness campaigns highlighting the needs and rights of persons with disabilities. He also suggested reviewing the functioning of special schools nationwide and including children with disabilities in events such as the “Notun Kuri Sports” competition.
The meeting also decided to launch a pilot project titled “Shishu Swarga” in 10 upazilas across 10 districts to provide healthcare and rehabilitation services for children with special needs.
Senior state ministers, top officials from relevant ministries, and representatives from disability welfare organisations attended the meeting.
-6a60a39f1f971.jpg "Outgoing Navy chief meets PM at Secretariat")
