Vision of ‘Disability-Free Punjab’ Takes Practical ShapeAssistive devices, including electric wheelchairs, distributed among 111 beneficiaries

By Dr. Ansab Ali
Lahore, Pakistan
LAHORE — The Punjab government’s vision of a “Disability-Free Punjab” took another practical step forward on Tuesday as wheelchairs and assistive devices were distributed among persons with disabilities at a ceremony held at the Directorate General of Social Welfare.
The event was organised on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister and was attended by Provincial Minister for Social Welfare Sohail Shaukat Butt as the chief guest. Additional Secretary Social Welfare Amina Munir, Director General Social Welfare Tariq Qureshi, and other senior officials of the department were also present.
During the ceremony, wheelchairs and a range of assistive devices were distributed among 111 deserving persons with disabilities from Lahore district. The equipment included manual and electric wheelchairs, tricycles, walkers, and other mobility aids.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Sohail Shaukat Butt said that a total of 12,245 assistive devices have been distributed across Punjab to date as part of the government’s welfare initiatives for persons with disabilities.
He personally visited beneficiaries at their seats, interacted with them, and listened to their concerns. The minister emphasised that enabling persons with disabilities to live dignified, independent, and self-reliant lives remains a top priority of the Punjab government.
He added that the provision of Himmat Cards, wheelchairs, and assistive devices reflects the government’s commitment to social inclusion and marks a significant step towards the establishment of a welfare state. “The vision of a ‘Disability-Free Punjab’ is steadily becoming a reality through practical measures,” he said.