In a significant move towards inclusivity, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has announced plans to establish a dedicated park for children with disabilities in Clifton Block-5. The announcement came during his visit to the UJALA Centre on World Children’s Day, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering accessible and inclusive environments for all.
The proposed park will include wheelchair-accessible pathways, sensory play areas, and specially designed facilities tailored to the needs of children with physical and developmental disabilities. Shah emphasized, “Every child deserves equal opportunities to thrive, and this park is a step towards ensuring that no child feels left out.”
During his visit, the CM was briefed on the upcoming UJALA-II project, a collaborative initiative between the Department of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) and the UJALA Centre, led by Yakoob Zakria. Spanning 400 square yards in Defence Phase-8, the project aims to provide specialized education and therapeutic services for children with autism and related conditions. Shah urged consultants to accelerate the project’s timeline, reducing it from three years to two, signaling his determination to prioritize these essential services.
Parents of children with autism also shared their struggles with the chief minister, highlighting the persistent societal stigma, the lack of inclusive recreational facilities, and the scarcity of accessible therapeutic and educational resources. Acknowledging their concerns, Shah directed DEPD Secretary Taha Farooqi to take immediate action and provide regular updates on progress.
The Sindh Government’s vision for inclusivity extends beyond individual projects. During discussions, Shah outlined plans for future initiatives that would integrate accessibility into the broader urban development strategy. He expressed the government’s intent to ensure that all public parks, schools, and healthcare facilities across Sindh are designed with inclusivity at their core. These efforts, Shah said, aim to normalize diverse needs and foster acceptance across all societal levels.
Experts in disability advocacy have lauded the Sindh Government’s approach, calling it a progressive shift in addressing long-neglected issues. By integrating specialized services like UJALA-II and creating recreational spaces such as the Clifton park, the province is taking tangible steps toward an inclusive future. “Such initiatives not only empower children with disabilities but also educate the broader community about embracing diversity,” remarked one disability rights activist.
To further enhance Karachi’s accessibility, Shah met Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab and instructed him to fast-track the development of the inclusive park in Clifton. This park, Shah noted, will serve as a model for similar projects across the province.
The CM also discussed the Sindh Government’s ambitious Inclusive City project, which aims to transform urban spaces into universally accessible environments. The initiative focuses on improving public infrastructure, transportation, and facilities for people with disabilities, while also promoting greater awareness about the value of diversity and inclusion in society.
“These projects are not just about infrastructure; they represent a broader vision of an inclusive and equitable Sindh,” Shah stated. “An inclusive Sindh is a prosperous Sindh. We are committed to ensuring that all residents, particularly children with disabilities, have access to the resources and opportunities they deserve.”
The announcement of the Clifton park and the UJALA-II project underscores Shah’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities. These initiatives highlight a future where accessibility is not an afterthought but a fundamental right, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive society.
