Report published on improving accessibility information for mobility services

The Ministry of Transport and Communications published a report on improving accessibility information for mobility services on 7 June 2021. Accessibility information refers to information on such questions as how the transport infrastructure and mobility service are suited to the elderly and people with reduced mobility, for example in respect of lifts at transport terminals and low-floor train carriages or buses. A study was launched in autumn 2020 as part of the Making digital transport and communication services accessible Action Programme 2017-2021.

This study found that the process of improving accessibility information is wide-ranging and closely linked to improving other travel information, such as details of timetables and routes. Key issues to be addressed include defining, formulating and technically implementing accessibility information.

According to the study, developing accessibility information requires a continuous dialogue between various operators and end-users, and greater awareness on the part of transport sector travel information development projects and commercial transport service providers. It is essential to integrate accessibility information into the broader planning and development of travel information.

The study proposes the establishment of a working group focusing on accessibility information in parallel with the Transport Ecosystem project and travel information group co-ordinated by Traffic Management Company Fintraffic Ltd. The working group would seek to ensure that the diverse needs of users are considered in travel information planning forums, and that accessibility measures are developed as part of the general development of travel information.

What are the next steps?

The Ministry of Transport and Communications is evaluating the findings of the study, and will continue improving the availability and serviceability of accessibility information as part of other projects falling within its purview that seek to use digital information, and as part of implementing the Transport 12 programme. Transport 12 is the national 12-year parliamentary plan for the transport system between 2021 and 2032. The national transport system plan seeks to impose a more long-term perspective on development of the transport system throughout Finland.

Inquiries:

Mikael Åkermarck, Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 40 053 3847