Government to issue new rules on ramps for disabled

Next year disabled people will get ramps, which comply with international standards.

Next year disabled people will get ramps, which comply with international standards. KT/ Chor Sokunthea

The Disability Action Council confirmed that the government will set new regulations next year requiring public and private institutions to install ramps, which comply with international standards, for disabled people.

Speaking at a workshop to discuss the 2019-2030 National Disability Strategic Plan, DAC secretary general Em Chan Makara said that nowadays most institutions have ramps for the disabled, but some of these are useless.

“Some ramps are too steep and have no handrails for a disabled person to use,” he said. “Some of the institutions use ramps for cars and expect disabled persons to use them.”

Mr Chan Makara added that next year, the government through the Land Management Ministry will issue new regulations to ensure that all ramps for disabled people are standardised.

He also expressed concern over disabled people who are exploited by others who hire them to sing along sidewalks in order to make money.

“We usually crack down on people who hire the disabled to beg in public and advise those who are exploited to start their own businesses such as raising pig or chickens to earn a living,” he added.

According to a recent report by the Social Affairs Ministry, there are 2,839 persons with disabilities, including 1,478 severely disabled, who are employed in ministries and state institutions.

The report also said that in the private sector, 77 companies have hired a total of 3,055 disabled people.

Full story in Wednesday’s paper