Yandex Go in Uzbekistan is collaborating with 700 drivers who have hearing and speech impairments. Over five years, they have completed 850,000 rides, according to the company's press service.

Currently, such drivers fulfill an average of 35,000 orders per month, double the figure from two years ago. This indicates a growing demand for inclusive services.

The Yandex Go platform is specially adapted for deaf drivers: connection without phone calls, training in sign language, text-based communication, and vibration notifications. When a new order arrives, the smartphone screen flashes and the device vibrates. The text chat between driver and passenger remains active throughout the ride, while voice calls are disabled.

Special covers and cards are placed in cars to facilitate communication between driver and passenger. According to the company, drivers' hearing characteristics do not affect passenger ratings or ride safety.

Drivers with hearing and speech impairments can work as self-employed individuals or through taxi fleets. The company has developed a guide for taxi fleets on interacting with such drivers.

Usmon Sharifkhodjayev, Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection, noted that developing an inclusive environment is directly linked to technology. "Adapting the platform to the perception characteristics of people with hearing and speech impairments transforms inclusion from one-time initiatives into regular practice. Project statistics prove the high demand for such tools; they help people realize themselves professionally and strengthen a culture of mutual respect in society," he said.

Sardor Kadirov, Vice President of Yandex Uzbekistan, stated that the company is consistently creating opportunities for people with disabilities to realize their professional potential. "We are adapting not only Yandex Taxi but also other services, such as Yandex Lavka. Recently, this service opened warehouse vacancies for specialists with hearing impairments. It is very important that we carry out this work together with government and public organizations, relying on feedback from the people themselves. Combining experience and resources allows us to create systemic solutions that meet the real needs of the people for whom these solutions are intended," he said.

Source: www.gazeta.uz