Barrier-free public transport in Schwäbisch Gmünd: Who really cares?

Barrier-free public transport in Schwäbisch Gmünd: Who really cares?

In Schwäbisch Gmünd, people with physical, cognitive or mental limitations face numerous hurdles in local public transport. Despite growing awareness technologies and initiatives to improve accessibility, the situation remains unsatisfactory. Andrzej Sielicki from the Schwäbisch Gmünd Mobility Working Group emphasizes: “The needs of these people must be known in order to achieve accessibility.” The problems range from inadequate curb heights for wheelchairs and walkers to difficult-to-read timetables and inaccessible stops. However, given financial bottlenecks in the city, rapid progress is questionable, even though a mobility transition has been decided.

Accessibility in Gmünder public transport is complicated to assess, but there is consensus that there is a need for improvement. Regular exchanges with the passenger advisory board and the district office in Aalen are intended to promote current developments. Sielicki calls for greater awareness of the issue: Accessibility should not only be considered practically, but also anchored in public and political thinking. He also suggests involving school classes in initiatives to promote interaction with people who rely on accessibility.

Social participation through accessibility

Accessibility is everyone's responsibility because it is not only important for people with disabilities. Parents with strollers and travelers with heavy luggage also benefit from barrier-free public transport. According to the VCD, self-determined mobility is essential for social participation. Barrier-free public transport and infrastructure are absolutely necessary to enable everyone to participate in public life. Texts in simple language and pictograms also help to support people with language barriers or reading problems.

A few facts about accessibility: In Germany, the legal obligation for accessibility in public transport has been in effect since January 1, 2022, which has not yet been met in many regions. Apart from the 4% of disabilities that are congenital, most limitations result from accidents or illness. The topic is therefore becoming more and more relevant in an increasingly older society.

Current developments in local public transport

Public transport throughout Germany is gradually becoming more barrier-free. Ramps, guidance systems and floor markings are being introduced at stops and train stations, which are particularly important for people in wheelchairs or with visual impairments. For example, means of transport must be equipped with ramps or lifts and offer space for wheelchairs and strollers. Acoustic signals and tactile guidance systems are also essential aspects that must be taken into account.

The federal government plans to ensure complete accessibility in local public transport by 2026. This also includes the creation of barrier-free mobility stations. The federal government is investing in the accessibility of long-distance transport to make it easier for everyone to use the train. An inclusive society in which all people can participate in life equally requires an appropriate infrastructure. Progress is therefore the responsibility of the federal states and municipalities.

Raising awareness of these challenges and removing existing barriers is one of the main tasks in Schwäbisch Gmünd and beyond. In order to achieve a real mobility transition, it is necessary that all actors pull together and strive for accessibility as a common goal.