The World White Cane Safety Day -2021 was observed in Rangpur city on Friday aiming to recognise active participation of the visually impaired people in all social works and celebrate their achievements.
Rangdhanu District Protibondhi Adhikar Sangstha (RDPAS), Rangpur organised a rally followed by a discussion at Town Social Services Office in observance of the day with the theme of 'Digital Sadachari, Nirapodey Poth Choli' in the city.
The Access Bangladesh Foundation and Commonwealth Foundation extended assistance to RDPAS in arranging the programmes marking the day.
Assistant Director of the District Department of Social Services (DSS) Mst Sanjida Begum attended the discussion as the chief guest with its Town Social Service Officer Shafikul Islam Paikar in the chair.
The Upazila Social Service Officers, visually impaired people, leaders of different organisations working for welfare of the physically challenged people participated in the programmes.
Probation Officer at the District DSS Office Md Nazrul Islam, Badarganj Upazila Social Service Officer Md Golam Faruk, General Secretary of RDPAS Md Hasanur Rahman (Helal) and its Community Mobiliser Md Atiar Rahman also spoke.
Shafikul Islam Paikar said the day is observed globally to cherish the achievements of the blind people who won against their physical limitations and achieved success in different fields.
Hasanur Rahman said the visually impaired people have been using the white cane for centuries. It also helps normal people to identify blind people walking on the streets and be more careful towards them.
"Now, the white cane has become a symbol of freedom, independence and confidence as it enables visually impaired people to move freely and perform their daily tasks," he said.
The chief guest said the day is being observed globally to recognise the importance of white canes for blind people, who want to move safely and maintain independence.
"The white cane is an important mobility tool that symbolises the independence of blind people who need to join the society's mainstream and celebrate their achievements," she said.