Despite many advances and efforts in recent years, wheelchair users still face numerous challenges when they want to move autonomously in public spaces. From the lack of ramps at bus stops to narrow doors on buses and insufficient information about accessible routes - the list of obstacles is long and often frustrating.
One of the biggest limitations is the lack of accessibility at bus stops and train stations. There are often no ramps or lifts to enable wheelchair users to access buses, subway trains or trains. As a result, wheelchair users are dependent on the help of others or even have to do without public transport altogether. Equally affected are those passengers who travel with baby carriages, walking frames, suitcases or shopping trolleys - in other words, a significant proportion of public transport users.
But even if wheelchair users manage to get into a vehicle, there are often other hurdles. Narrow aisles and doors make it difficult to move around inside buses and trains or to park a wheelchair. In addition, there is often insufficient information about accessible routes and vehicles.
There is a lack of clear and easily accessible information about which stops and vehicles are accessible for wheelchair users. This makes it difficult for wheelchair users to plan their journeys in advance and leads to uncertainty and stress during the journey.
However, inclusion in public transport is not an impossible task. The Disability Equality Act has been in force in Switzerland for more than 20 years and the transition period expired in January 2024. It now requires a determined commitment from cities and municipalities, transport companies and society as a whole to implement the necessary changes.
Measures that can be taken include extending ramps and lifts at stops and stations, adapting vehicles to create more space for wheelchair users and improving information about accessible routes and vehicles.
With the ZICLA Vectorial® system, we have a product with which existing stop edges can be quickly, easily and cost-effectively converted into barrier-free stops. ZICLA Vectorial® has a modular design and is made entirely from recycled plastic. Installation is extremely simple and can be adapted to any terrain situation. Verkehrsbetriebe Glattal and the municipality of Wallisellen have already been operating a bus stop with ZICLA Vectorial for some time, and the feedback has been consistently positive. plusport also rates the product as a suitable measure for barrier-free access to bus stops.
Inclusion in public transportation is not an optional task - it is a moral obligation we have as a society. By removing barriers and creating an environment that is accessible to all, we can build a society that is characterized by diversity and equality. Everyone - regardless of their abilities - should be able to live their lives as freely and independently as possible. This includes autonomous travel and participating in public life without the help of others.
In the following video, accompany Jan Bollhalder on his journey on public transport and get to know the ZICLA Vectorial® system.