In a groundbreaking move to promote inclusivity, the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport (CSRT) has launched standardized Transport Hand Signs. The initiative is designed to improve communication between persons with disabilities (PWDs) and transport service providers, ensuring safer and more accessible travel experiences.
Bridging Communication Gaps
The department’s Special Programmes Officer, Kenosoang Selemela, emphasized that the initiative was driven by the need to eliminate communication barriers for PWDs. “This is primarily motivated by ensuring accessibility and inclusion, especially when persons with disabilities use transport services,” Selemela explained during a recent interview.
The standardized hand signs will help taxi operators and commuters with disabilities interact more effectively, reducing misunderstandings and improving service delivery.
Multi-Sectoral Implementation
To ensure widespread adoption, the department has partnered with provincial taxi councils and disability associations. Workshops will be conducted to train taxi operators on the new hand signals.
“Nothing for them without them,” Selemela noted, referencing the disability community’s advocacy for involvement in decisions affecting them. The Free State Deaf Association has played a key role in shaping the initiative, ensuring the signs are practical and universally understood.
Positive Reception from Transport Sector
The launch event saw strong participation from nearly 10 taxi associations, signaling broad support for the initiative. Selemela described the response as overwhelmingly positive, with operators recognizing the need to address accessibility gaps in the industry.
While the program initially focuses on the taxi industry, there are plans to expand it to e-hailing and metered taxi services in the future.
A Step Toward Inclusive Public Transport
This initiative not only enhances accessibility but also aims to restore public confidence in transport services. By fostering better communication, the Free State government hopes to create a more inclusive and efficient public transport system.
As workshops roll out across the province, stakeholders remain optimistic that this initiative will set a precedent for disability-inclusive transportation reforms nationwide.
For more updates on this initiative, follow the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport.