Ignored: Most people cannot afford to buy assistive devices

ISLAMABAD:

Assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs, three-wheeled motorbikes are a beacon of hope for people with disabilities. But the high cost of these devices precludes many people in Pakistan from ever benefitting from them.

“Many disabled especially people in rural areas do not know where they can buy these assistive devices,” said Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP) President Muhammad Atif Sheikh.

He said the price of wheel chairs starts from Rs6,000 and goes beyond Rs 300,000.

“How can a poor man, who can hardly earn enough to feed himself, afford these devices?”

Those who can afford these devices have no workshops to take them to in case they break down.

“Every year on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities the government makes claims of empowering people with disabilities. But they know nothing because there is no one to represent people with disabilities in the National Assembly,” Sheikh said.

Special Education Director-General Mustafain Kazmi said even though they were trying to help people with disabilities, they said they cannot do much due to financial constraints.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 3^rd, 2011.