Uzbekistan moves to make urban transport accessible for people with disabilities

According to the draft legislation, carriers operating urban passenger transport services will be required to create necessary conditions for passengers with disabilities as well as those traveling with children. In particular, vehicle interiors must be equipped to ensure the safe boarding and disembarking of passengers, including people with limited mobility.

The bill also strengthens requirements for urban transport infrastructure. Bus stops and stopping areas would be required to include ramps and handrails to facilitate access to and from vehicles for people with disabilities. These standards would have to be taken into account at all stages of the design, construction, and improvement of transport stops.

Responsibility for implementing and overseeing compliance with these accessibility standards would be assigned to the Ministry of Transport. The ministry would coordinate efforts to create a barrier-free urban transport environment and monitor how carriers fulfill the new requirements.

The proposed changes are aimed at ensuring equal access to urban transport, enabling the free movement of people with disabilities, and improving the overall quality of passenger services. If adopted, the law is expected to lead to a gradual adaptation of urban transport systems and infrastructure to inclusive standards.

In addition to accessibility measures, the draft law introduces new requirements for non-route taxis operating in cities. Under the proposal, the service life of vehicles used for urban passenger transport by such taxis must not exceed 15 years. These vehicles would also be required to meet existing road safety standards in terms of technical condition and equipment.

The document notes that the age limit is intended to enhance passenger safety, reduce the use of technically unfit vehicles, and improve the quality of urban transport services. It also provides for mandatory insurance for non-route taxis, the availability of electronic payment options, and the use of specialized applications that provide taximeter functions.