The transport companies are aware of the problem and are trying to counteract it through targeted offers and cooperation.
Most stops within the city ring are barrier-free, says DVB spokesman Falk Lösch when asked by MDR SACHSEN. And if not, there is always a ramp in the vehicles, he adds. “It will take a while until we are at 100 percent.”
According to Lösch, Dresden is already very far compared to other cities. The DVB would be in regular contact with the relevant associations regarding accessibility and standards. This is important in order to find out what can be done better.
And so, for example, there is cooperation with the state self-help working group. As part of the “Public transport for all” project, it offers regular mobility training together with DVB. Among other things, the use of the ramp and establishing contact with the driving staff are practiced. The free training is a good opportunity to practice driving on public transport without stress, emphasizes project manager Kerstin Hammer.
However, an important basic requirement for good cooperation in local public transport is mutual consideration. Kerstin Hammer has the following situation in mind: There is a ramp at the first door in trams and at the second door in buses. If this parking space is already occupied by a cyclist, for example, that is always a big challenge. In this situation, consideration is required and the cyclist should move back if possible and make room for the wheelchair user. “So everyone can go along and there are no difficulties on site,” says Kerstin Hammer in conclusion.