Accessibility challenges on passenger rail service in the City of Tshwane, South Africa

Abstract

The paper explores challenges faced by vulnerable users of rail transport in the Gauteng North region of Metrorail. People living with disabilities in urban areas experience various mobility challenges. Fully accessible public transport is a challenge for many countries, and more so in developing countries. Developing countries have been struggling to implement accessible public transport, hampering mobility for people living with disabilities. In South Africa, legislation has been developed for accessibility to be included in transportation; however, to date, vulnerable users still face challenges, especially regarding passenger rail transport. Lack of accessible public transport services leads to exclusion from social and economic activities. The City of Tshwane (CoT) does not adequately address this issue of inaccessible rail infrastructure, leading to major mobility impediments. This paper reports on a study that explored the implementation of accessible rail infrastructure in the CoT. Mobility challenges in the CoT were identified using qualitative and quantitative research methods. The paper found that rail infrastructure is still inaccessible, which has negative impacts on the community’s mobility in the area of study (CoT). The article advocates for the inclusion of marginalised groups in the planning and implementation of accessibility. Periodical policy review and regulatory enforcement will contribute positively to the CoT’s endeavours to improve accessible public transport.