Ko Kret in Nonthaburi to Be Developed as a Universal Design Community Model (9/12/2014) Ko Kret, a small island located in the Chao Phraya River, off Pak Kret district in Nonthaburi province, will be developed as a "Universal Design Community Model. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha cited the project as a way to promote social equality and provide opportunities for people with disabilities to have access to state services. Also referred to as "inclusive design, universal design refers to ideas of making things, such as facilities and environments, safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone. It involves designing buildings, products, and services that are accessible to all users. The Prime Minister said that a survey was being conducted in the Ko Kret community to prepare for the Universal Design Community Model project. Participating in the project are local residents, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Ministry of Transport, Chulalongkorn University, the Pak Kret Municipality, and disability-related organizations. Ko Kret is close to Bangkok and local people travel mainly by boat. It is only some two kilometers long and one kilometer wide. There are seven villages, and the largest and most populous one is the Mon community. The surroundings of this picturesque island offer a chance to explore the culture of this ethnic group, which has been part of Thailands history for hundreds of years. Most of the Mon descendants are orchard growers and potters. Ko Kret is one of the most famous tourism sites in Nonthaburi. Handcrafted pottery also makes a name for the community. The main attraction for visitors is that it is an enjoyable place for simply walking around, browsing the merchandise in the many pottery shops. Visitors can admire the molding and pottery skills of many families there. Prime Minister Prayut said that the launching of the Universal Design Community Model project aims to make travel and getting about easier for people with disabilities, as well as older persons, sick people, war veterans, children, and pregnant women. With facilities accessible to them, they will be able to carry out their various activities safely, without posing burdens to society and people around them. The Prime Minister said that he had instructed members of the Cabinet to ensure that government facilities were accessible to everyone. This would reflect social equality and protect fundamental rights. The facilities also include the mass transit system, public toilets, and other structures. Ramps must be provided for people who travel on wheelchairs. The ramps must not be too steep and they should connect with all areas in a place. All facilities and services should be modified, so that they will become more suitable for the disabled and those who require supporting equipment. 1/10/2021 Page 1 กรมประชาสัมพันธ์.