Issues of accessibility of the urban environment for people with disabilities remain a topic of active discussion in Bishkek. Civic activist Askar Turdugulov, an adviser to the mayor of Bishkek and a public adviser to the ombudsman on the protection of the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities, drew attention to the fact that serious obstacles can arise even in places that are supposed to take the needs of people with limited mobility into account.
Barriers in the urban environment and in healthcare
One example the activist highlighted concerns the use of restrooms in buildings, where he found he was unable to use the facilities. In addition, even when a ramp is installed, using it can be difficult because of too steep an angle of incline or the absence of necessary handrails.
Ensuring access to medical services
The problems also affect healthcare. In one case described by a young woman with a disability named Dariya, a district doctor was seeing patients on the second floor of a hospital where there was no elevator. As a result, the doctor had to speak with the patient in the corridor, since other offices were occupied. According to activists, this is not a full substitute for an accessible medical office.
These cases underscore that the accessibility problem affects not only physical passage but also the ability to receive necessary services in conditions that should be as comfortable and safe as possible for all residents.
