Tashkent launches "Social Taxi" service for people with disabilities

The National Social Protection Agency of Uzbekistan has launched a pilot project called "Social Taxi" in Tashkent, aimed at supporting people with disabilities. The initiative is designed to provide easier access to social services, educational institutions, and other essential facilities for individuals with disabilities and children with mobility challenges.

The "Social Taxi" service, introduced through the Yandex Go app, includes a special feature tailored to the needs of people with disabilities. The app's dedicated screen allows users to select the appropriate transportation option (Start, Comfort, or Comfort+) without altering the fare. This ensures that the service remains affordable for all users, with prices remaining the same across different service tiers.

When a ride is requested, drivers are notified about the specific requirements of the passenger, such as:

•  Assistance with finding the vehicle and helping the passenger into the car, as indicated on the app.
•  For individuals with hearing impairments, drivers are encouraged to communicate through a chat function.
•  If the user is in a wheelchair, the driver will be alerted to assist with seating and provide space for the wheelchair in the vehicle's trunk.

One user, who relies on the service to transport her grandchild with mobility issues, praised the new initiative: “I now take my grandchild to a specialized preschool group in the ‘Care’ category in the social taxi. The prices are reasonable, and the service is very convenient and adapted for people with disabilities.”

The "Social Taxi" pilot project was first announced in March 2024, with plans to extend the service beyond Tashkent to the Syrdarya region.