- Comboios de Portugal (National Railway) CP operates most of Portugal’s intercity and regional trains, offering accessible services on selected routes. Many newer trains, such as the Alfa Pendular and Intercidades models, have been designed with improved accessibility features. These include designated spaces for wheelchairs with securement systems, ramps, and accessible toilets. Stations: Major stations like Lisbon Santa Apolónia, Lisbon Oriente, Porto Campanhã, and Faro are equipped with accessible facilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible toilets.
- Fertagus (Lisbon-South Setúbal Line) Fertagus operates the suburban rail service between Lisbon and Setúbal, known for its accessibility features like low-floor entrances, designated wheelchair spaces, and accessible toilets. Stations along the Lisbon-South Setúbal line, such as Roma-Areeiro, Entrecampos, and Setúbal, are equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible platforms.
- Porto Metro is a light rail and metro system serving Porto and its surrounding areas. Porto Metro trains and stations are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring low-floor entrances, wheelchair spaces, and audible announcements. Most Porto Metro stations are accessible, equipped with ramps, elevators, and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers
Barriers to Train Travel for Wheelchair Users
Despite efforts to improve accessibility, there are several challenges wheelchair users may encounter when traveling by train in Portugal:
- Limited Accessibility on Older Trains: Older train models may lack sufficient space and designated wheelchair areas, making boarding and disembarking challenging.
- Elevator Reliability: Elevators at train stations, especially in older or less frequently serviced stations, may occasionally break down or require maintenance. This can temporarily restrict wheelchair users’ access to platforms or facilities.
- Language Barriers: While many train attendants may speak English, especially in major tourist areas and on international routes, there can be language barriers, particularly in more remote or less tourist-oriented locations.
- Boarding and Alighting Assistance: While assistance is available, its availability and reliability can vary, especially during off-peak hours or at smaller stations.
- Lack of Real-Time Accessibility Information: Information about train accessibility may not always be readily available, complicating trip planning for wheelchair users.
- Space Constraints and Accommodation: Accessible trains may have limited designated wheelchair spaces, especially during peak travel times, which may inconvenience wheelchair users.
- Toilet Accessibility: While many modern trains have accessible toilets, older or regional trains may lack these facilities, affecting the comfort of wheelchair users during long journeys.
- Communication and Training: Awareness and training among train staff regarding the needs of wheelchair users can vary, impacting the quality of assistance provided.
Stations with Limited Accessibility
While efforts are ongoing to improve accessibility across Portugal’s train network, some stations may still have significant barriers for wheelchair users. Stations known to have limited accessibility or lack complete facilities include smaller rural stations and historic stations that have not undergone recent renovations.
Addressing these challenges requires continued efforts from railway operators, infrastructure improvements, policy support, and enhanced awareness of accessibility needs among all stakeholders involved in train travel in Portugal.
