Karachi’s Clifton to host park for children with disabilities: CM

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced plans to establish a dedicated park for children with disabilities in Clifton Block-5 during his visit to the UJALA Centre on World Children’s Day.

According to Pak Observer, the park will feature wheelchair-accessible pathways, sensory play areas, and other facilities tailored to children with physical and developmental disabilities. Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to creating inclusive environments, stating, “Every child deserves equal opportunities to thrive.”

During the visit, the CM received a briefing on the upcoming UJALA-II project, a collaboration between the Department of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) and UJALA Centre, led by Yakoob Zakria. This initiative, spanning 400 square yards in Defence Phase-8, aims to provide specialised educational and therapeutic services for children with autism and related conditions. Shah urged project consultants to reduce the completion timeline from three years to two.

The chief minister engaged with parents of children with autism, who highlighted challenges such as societal stigma, lack of inclusive recreational spaces, and limited access to therapy and education. In response, he directed DEPD Secretary Taha Farooqi to address these concerns and keep him informed. Shah also met Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, instructing him to expedite the development of the inclusive park in Clifton.

Recognising the need for broader inclusion, Shah discussed the Sindh Government’s Inclusive City project. This initiative seeks to transform urban spaces into accessible environments for all residents, particularly those with disabilities. Key areas of focus include improving public infrastructure and transportation while fostering awareness about diversity and inclusion.

The visit underscored Shah’s commitment to promoting an inclusive Sindh, with projects like UJALA-II and the dedicated park symbolising a vision of empowerment and support for children with special needs. “An inclusive Sindh is a prosperous Sindh,” Shah reiterated, stressing the importance of these initiatives in shaping a better future.