Netherlands best, Czechia worst in Europe on rail accessibility – Omio
- Pinnacle Team
- Sep 4
- 1 min read
In a recent assessment of European railway accessibility, the Netherlands took the lead while the Czech Republic ranked last. A new report by Omio closely examined rail accessibility across Europe, specifically evaluating information and accessibility for people with mobility issues or visual impairments.
The Netherlands has built Europe's most accessible rail system, with tactile paving and digital displays installed in 99% of stations and barrier-free access provided at 97% of stations. This demonstrates the Netherlands' strong commitment to providing convenient and accessible transport for people with disabilities. In contrast, the Czech Republic ranked lowest among European countries in accessibility. This suggests that the Czech rail system fails to provide adequate facilities and information for people with disabilities.
Omio emphasized that improving the accessibility of a rail network is not just a moral obligation but is essential for fostering a vibrant and connected community. The goal is to ensure everyone can freely use the transport system, enhancing the travel experience and providing opportunities to explore new destinations and enjoy leisure and connection with loved ones.
This report makes it clear that European countries need to strengthen their efforts to improve rail accessibility. The Netherlands' case serves as a model for other countries, offering important lessons to nations with low accessibility, including the Czech Republic. It is crucial to remember that improving rail accessibility is a vital step toward ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to enjoy the freedom of travel.
February 15, 2024
