Bangkok Council Reviews Disability Ordinance
The Bangkok Metropolitan Council is considering a new ordinance designed to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in the city. A special committee has been formed and given 60 days to review the draft proposal before further action is taken.
- This proposed ordinance marks the first time in Bangkok's history that a dedicated act for persons with disabilities is being developed. - The push for this legislation is supported by data from November 2024, which indicates there are 105,302 registered persons with disabilities in Bangkok. - A significant portion of this population faces educational and employment challenges, with 49% having only attained a primary education and 60.89% of those of working age being unemployed. - The draft ordinance was proposed by Bangkok Metropolitan Council Member for Huai Khwang District, Praphrut Hanjitjakul, and his colleagues. - This initiative is part of a broader "Bangkok for All" vision, which includes upgrading public infrastructure to meet Universal Design standards to benefit people with disabilities and the elderly. - The council has approved the principles of the draft ordinance and appointed a 12-member special committee to review it. - While progress has been made in areas like the MRT system's accessibility, many challenges remain, including uneven pavements and a lack of facilities at all BTS Skytrain stations. - The new ordinance aims to create a clear legal framework and a dedicated fund to ensure the continuous and sustainable implementation of policies to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.
