Análisis exploratorio de los mapas de viaje de personas con discapacidad que usan el sistema de transporte público de la ciudad de Loja (Ecuador)

Abstract

Abstract: The research took place in the city of Loja with the aim of identifying deficiencies or barriers in the public transportation system that affect the accessibility and inclusion of individuals with visual impairments. The main objective was to create journey maps reflecting users' experiences when utilizing the transportation system. To achieve this, a methodological process was implemented, including interviews conducted before, during, and after travel stages. The primary findings reveal that participants encounter various barriers that compromise the safety and accessibility of their journeys, further hindering inclusion. This confirms that individuals with visual impairments must exert additional effort to use the public transportation system safely and carry out their daily activities appropriately. These findings are crucial for identifying potential solutions to enhance public transportation services and meet the demands of vulnerable users.