Kazakhstan disabled people will be able to move in special taxis

24.12.2012 9488

A special taxi service for passengers with disabilities, Invataxi, is helping break down barriers and promote equal access to education and employment in Almaty and around the country.

To access the service, a disabled person must bring an inquiry from the local social security office, a certificate from a medical professional and an identity card, said manager Zina Chicheneva. Individuals wanting to use the service then call the organisation and arrange a time for pickup. Currently, the service runs five days a week. Invataxi cars are equipped with GPS navigators and coordinated by the traffic superintendent.

The service was established a few years ago through the Centre for Rehabilitation Services.

“With the support of the Sabi charity fund we created a joint project, A decent life for people with disabilities, in the framework of which more than 52 cars were given to the foundation for the organisation of the transport service,” Chairman of the Union of Organisations of Disabled People of Kazakhstan Ali Amanbayev said.

“Invataxi works in all regions of the country. In Shymkent, Aktau and other cities, there is a minimum of two to three cars. 14 taxis operate in Almaty to cope with the load. It is not enough for the metropolis,” he said.