Sochi, the Russian host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics, has announced a major programme to develop infrastructure and services for disabled people.
The programme aims to create an accessible city that will be a model for cities across Russia. Features will include the creation of wheelchair rental and service centres and the availability of specialist equipment for people with a range of disabilities.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, Sochi 2014 President and CEO, said, “I am committed to ensuring that during the preparations for Russia’s first Paralympic Games we ensure that every possible step is taken to exceed the expectations of the IPC (International Paralympic Committee). During the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Games, people with disabilities will have the ability to move around freely, watch each of the different competitions and visit the tourist and recreational areas of Sochi.”
The launch of the programme was timed to coincide with Sochi marking five years to go until the Games. The 2014 Paralympic Winter Games begin 14 March 2014.
