Muscat – The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at improving digital accessibility and transport services for persons with disabilities, as part of the Purple Saturday campaign.

Implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development, the measures seek to create a more inclusive environment by enhancing access to government digital services, public transport and logistics facilities.

In the ICT sector, the ministry has issued a Digital Accessibility Guiding Manual and a Smart Mobile Applications Manual to help government entities and developers design and deliver digital services that are accessible to persons with disabilities.

The ministry is also working to increase compliance with digital accessibility standards across government websites and mobile applications through field visits, awareness programmes and capacity-building initiatives. It has launched a Visual Library and a Unified Communication Channel to improve access to information and support inclusive digital communication.

According to MTCIT, these initiatives are intended to boost  implementation of digital accessibility standards and improve compliance across government digital platforms.

In the transport and logistics sector, MTCIT said it is monitoring efforts to develop an integrated and accessible transport system that better serves persons with disabilities.

The ministry is working with transport companies and service operators to introduce supportive initiatives and special offers, while promoting the use of modern technologies to improve access to transport services.

It is also overseeing improvements to passenger facilities at ports and ferry terminals, including the provision of accessible boarding and disembarkation ramps, wheelchair services and staff training to meet the needs of passengers with disabilities.

In the aviation sector, MTCIT is coordinating with relevant authorities and airport operators to enhance services and facilities for passengers with disabilities, with focus on continuous improvement and accessibility.

The initiatives are part of the government’s efforts to promote inclusion and ensure that public services and infrastructure are accessible to all members of society. These also reflect Oman’s commitment to improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities by expanding access to digital services and transportation, the ministry stated.