The 'Free Distribution of Hi-pass Terminals Project' being promoted by Jeollabuk Special Self-Governing Province to enhance the convenience of highway use for people with disabilities is receiving a great response.

This project, initiated in accordance with a business agreement signed between Jeollabuk Special Self-Governing Province and the Korea Expressway Corporation in 2019, is a welfare support measure aimed at ensuring the safe driving of people with disabilities and alleviating economic burdens.

According to the province, a total of 5,545 terminals were distributed to people with disabilities until last year, and from March this year, an additional 553 terminals are being distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. As a result, a total of 6,098 terminals will be delivered free of charge by 2025.

The entire cost of purchasing the terminals is covered. The cost equivalent to 109,000 won per terminal is shared by the Korea Expressway Corporation (70,000 won) and Jeollabuk Special Self-Governing Province and municipalities (39,000 won). Applicants must be people with disabilities residing in the province, holding a Disability Integrated Welfare Card (including a function for highway toll discounts).

The application process is simple. By bringing the Disability Integrated Welfare Card and a copy of the vehicle registration certificate, applicants can visit around 40 highway tollgates in the province, and the terminals will be delivered by courier. After receiving them, users can immediately register at the nearest town welfare center and start using them. However, the delivery fee must be borne by the applicant.

The supported vehicles include one vehicle registered in the name of the disabled person or a guardian residing together, including passenger cars, vans, trucks, electric cars, etc. However, personal taxis, commercial vehicles, and corporate vehicles are excluded.

Yang Soo-mi, head of the Disability Welfare Policy Division in Jeollabuk Special Self-Governing Province, expressed hope that "this project will guarantee the mobility rights of people with disabilities and contribute to improving their quality of life," adding that "we will continue to expand substantive welfare policies in the future."

Photo: Application process for Hi-pass terminals