Karachi: The Pakistan Down Syndrome Association (PDSA) Karachi, in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), Government of Sindh, organized a distribution ceremony of assistive devices in District Korangi. The distributed devices included wheelchairs, tricycles, and tri-motorbikes, aimed at enhancing the mobility, independence, and quality of life of persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Tauha Ahmed Faruqui, Secretary, DEPD, Government of Sindh, emphasized that assistive devices play a vital role in improving mobility and promoting inclusion for persons with disabilities. He shared that during the last financial year, the DEPD disbursed PKR 400 million among organizations of persons with disabilities across Sindh to reach underserved and remote communities. Acknowledging the success of this initiative, he announced that the Sindh Government has enhanced the allocation to PKR 800 million for the ongoing financial year to further expand the distribution of assistive devices.
Mr. Faruqui also highlighted that District Korangi has become a model area with multiple facilities for persons with disabilities, including the Inclusive City, C-Arts Autism Care Center, and the NOWPDP Skill Development Center for youth with disabilities.
Mr. Masood Ahmed Bhutto, Deputy Commissioner, District Korangi, appreciated the efforts of PDSA and DEPD, describing the initiative as a commendable step toward addressing the mobility challenges of persons with disabilities. He further announced that his office would adopt measures to become wheelchair accessible, reflecting the district’s commitment to inclusion.
Mr. Naeem Ahmed Sheikh, Chairman, Korangi Town, also praised the Sindh Government and the Pakistan People’s Party for their commitment to mainstreaming persons with disabilities. He announced the establishment of a dedicated park for persons with disabilities in Korangi Town. In response, Mr. Bhutto pledged full administrative support, while Mr. Faruqui announced plans for a PDSA-DEPD rehabilitation center for children with intellectual disabilities in the area.
Earlier, Mr. Abid Lashari, CEO of PDSA Pakistan, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the DEPD, Government of Sindh, for their unwavering support. He noted that this large-scale distribution would not have been possible without the government’s collaboration, calling it “a living example of the Sindh Government’s sincerity and commitment to the welfare and mobility of persons with disabilities.”
He reaffirmed PDSA’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities through ongoing rehabilitation and support services for children with Down syndrome at PDSA Rehabilitation Centers in Karachi, supported by the DEPD Department.
