State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) Diethono Nakhro has expressed disappointment over the inadequate infrastructure and accessibility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) at the ongoing Hornbill Festival at the naga Heritage village, Kisama.
Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, SCPD acknowledged some efforts made by the state government, but said that it was insufficient. Nakhro pointed out that the ramp leading to the Morungs were not fully accessible as it ends halfway and did not reach the entrance of the Morung. She also emphasized that the pathways did not adequately connect to the Morungs.
Further, SCPD said that railings should be have been installed when steps were built, adding that railings would benefit not only PWDs but also elderly individuals. Nakhro also stated that the government was providing shuttle buses for PwDs, there were various types of disabilities that posed unique challenges.
For some, she said transferring into the bus could be difficult. She stressed the need for special arrangements not just for local residents but also for visiting elderly individuals.
SCPD also suggested that specific vehicles should be designed for this purpose, which she has specifically asked the department to provide.
Nakhro said the government was specifically urged to ensure that all new structures being developed were accessible.
While the government is making some efforts and attempting to address the necessary changes, she said that the urgency of these actions was not fully recognized, adding they had to keep pursuing issues.
Asserting accessibility should not be treated as an optional enhancement, SCPD said it must be regarded as an essential provision that cannot be addressed at the government’s convenience.
Without accessibility provisions, she said disabled individuals cannot live fulfilling life.
She also noted that many of the new structures were still incomplete and emphasized that accessibility should have been considered during the design phase.
Even if the constructions were not fully finished, she said there should have been basic accessibility features in place. SCPD pointed out that there were no provisions made for PwDs at the newly constructed main arena. The commissioner said that she would continue to pursue these accessibilities until fulfilled.