Advances in Research

Background: Infrastructure and accessibility barriers in public bus transportation limit the mobility, independence, and safety of people with disabilities. Reliable and inclusive transit is essential for their social, economic, and civic participation. Bus terminals are vital for connectivity, yet many remain poorly designed despite policies and international conventions.

Aims: This review aims to bring together existing research on the barriers people with disabilities face when using public bus transport, especially at bus terminals. It looks at studies from around the world to understand common problems and highlight practical solutions that can make travel safer, easier, and more inclusive for everyone.

Study Design: Systematic Review.

Place and Duration of Study: The review was conducted at the Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow, from July 2025 to September 2025.

Methodology: A systematic review was conducted through searches on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify 25 relevant studies published in English between January 2000 and March 2025. Data were collected on structural, social, and operational barriers affecting people with disabilities (PwDs).

Results: Persistent barriers in public bus transport for people with disabilities include lack of ramps, tactile paths, accessible toilets, signage, safe pedestrian routes, and trained staff, mainly affecting elderly and wheelchair users. Among the reviewed studies, around 68% identified physical and structural barriers as the most critical, followed by informational barriers in 20% and policy – or service-related challenges in about 12%. The review adheres to PRISMA guidelines to ensure systematic and transparent reporting. A review of 25 studies shows high-income countries emphasize design and technology, while developing countries like India struggle with basic standards. In Uttar Pradesh, key priorities are infrastructure upgrades, staff training, communication improvement, and policy enforcement through participatory audits, universal design, and assistive technologies for safer mobility.

Conclusion: Implementing these strategies can improve social inclusion, confidence, and satisfaction among people with disabilities and promote equitable urban transport. Including their perspectives in planning is essential, and phased interventions addressing infrastructure, social, and operational challenges offer practical guidance for policymakers and planners.