Introducing Map Accessibility Initiative
Map Accessibility Initiative is a community-driven, Local Guides-based campaign in Bangladesh dedicated to promoting accessibility awareness and mapping. Launched in 2018, the initiative was inspired by the global accessibility mapping efforts of Local Guides on the Google Connect platform. Founded by @ShafiulB, the Local Guides Bangla Community has since championed it.
Our mission is to help create a more inclusive world for people with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users, by providing accurate and comprehensive accessibility information on Google Maps. We believe that by mapping accessible places, we can significantly contribute to the empowerment and independence of the disabled community.
Bridging the Accessibility Gap: The Local Guides program encourages its members to assist underrepresented communities, and this initiative focuses on bridging a critical gap in Bangladesh. We recognized that there was a severe lack of accessibility data and widespread unawareness of both accessibility issues and disabled rights. For wheelchair users, this lack of information poses a significant barrier to daily mobility.
Inspired by Global Goals: Our campaign’s core theme is directly inspired by the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically the principle to “Leave No One Behind.” This commitment drives us to tackle inequalities and ensure that everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, has equal access to public spaces and services.
Key Activities of the Map Accessibility Initiative: To achieve our goals, we developed a multi-faceted approach for our meetups and campaigns:
- Spreading Awareness: Educating people about disabled rights and accessibility in Bangladesh.
This is the foundation of our work. We go beyond simply mapping locations; we aim to change mindsets. Our campaigns include educational sessions and community discussions to inform the public about the legal and moral rights of disabled individuals in Bangladesh. We highlight the importance of inclusive design and a welcoming attitude, which are crucial for creating a truly accessible society. This part of the initiative focuses on building a culture of empathy and understanding, ensuring that accessibility is seen as a human right, not just a convenience.
- Highlighting Wheelchair Accessibility: Emphasizing the importance of wheelchair-accessible places.
A major focus of our mapping efforts is on the needs of wheelchair users. We specifically identify and document features like ramps, level entrances, and spacious doorways, which are essential for mobility. By highlighting these details, we provide a vital resource for wheelchair users to plan their outings and confidently navigate public spaces. This targeted approach ensures that the most critical accessibility information is readily available on Google Maps, empowering a community that often faces significant logistical challenges.
- Appreciating Accessible Businesses: Recognizing and celebrating businesses that are accessible.
We believe in a two-way approach to driving change. In addition to encouraging businesses to become more accessible, we actively celebrate those who are already doing a great job. We publicly recognize and appreciate these businesses, showcasing them as models for the community. This positive reinforcement creates an incentive for other establishments to invest in accessibility, demonstrating that it is not only the right thing to do but can also lead to positive public relations and a loyal customer base.
- Using Stickers: Marking wheelchair-accessible locations with our “This Place is Accessible” sticker.
To make our efforts visible and easily recognizable, we created a custom “This Place is Accessible” sticker. When we find and verify a location that meets our accessibility criteria, we place one of these stickers on its entrance. This serves as a quick visual guide for the disabled community and the public. The stickers are a tangible symbol of our work, providing instant confirmation of a place’s accessibility and serving as a reminder of the ongoing importance of this initiative.
Our Impact: Since 2018, the Map Accessibility initiative, in partnership with the Local Guides Bangla Community, has organized numerous successful meetups and campaigns across Bangladesh. We have reached thousands of people, raising awareness and marking thousands of places with our accessibility stickers.
Our Meetups activities:
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
- National Mourning Day Special - Map Accessibility
- Map Accessibility 2022, Rajshahi
- Map Accessibility 2022
2023
2024
2025
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To be continued…
Our efforts have also inspired other accessibility-focused campaigns in the country, such as Accessible Bengal by @PritishB and Accessible Restroom by @KhokonSharker
Looking Ahead: We are committed to our ongoing mission. We have planned special activities to coincide with this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities to further our work in mapping accessibility throughout Bangladesh.
We invite you to join us in this important cause. Your contributions as a Local Guide can make a real difference and help ensure that no one is left behind.
Follow our updates and support your local disabled community through accessibility mapping on Google Maps.
Happy Guiding!
Upcoming Meetup Updates:
Making places accessible for all and raising awareness is truly inspiring. Every mapped spot and sticker makes a real difference. 
