This research addresses the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals while navigating through India’s Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS). Despite having infrastructure provisions and assistive technologies, visually impaired individuals continued to experience barriers in independently accessing and using public transport systems. They had to heavily rely on others for doing the basic tasks like identifying the right platform, boarding on the right bus. These small but critical moments of friction showcased the deeper issue of public transport system under looking the needs and necessities of the visually impaired . Rooted in a human-centered design approach, this study presents NaviBus, a thoughtful, inclusive mobility solution designed to restore a sense of autonomy and ease in public travel. Key findings reveal systemic gaps in physical accessibility, digital usability, and sensory overload-highlighting a need for more responsive and context-aware interventions. Through immersive field work and stakeholder engagement, this research introduces a solution framework which is divided into three parts, encompassing a platform identification system with the help of vibro-sonic feedback, one handed gesture-based interaction and a simplified, high contrast user interface for users with low vision. By leveraging inclusive design methods rooted in lived experiences, the study aims to empower visually impaired commuters and foster more equitable access to urban transportation in the Indian context.

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Navibus-Enhancing the Accessibility of Bus Rapid Transit System for Visually Impaired Through Multimodal Interactions

  • Rishika Sood,
  • Vishwa Desai,
  • Amitha Mohandas

摘要

This research addresses the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals while navigating through India’s Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS). Despite having infrastructure provisions and assistive technologies, visually impaired individuals continued to experience barriers in independently accessing and using public transport systems. They had to heavily rely on others for doing the basic tasks like identifying the right platform, boarding on the right bus. These small but critical moments of friction showcased the deeper issue of public transport system under looking the needs and necessities of the visually impaired . Rooted in a human-centered design approach, this study presents NaviBus, a thoughtful, inclusive mobility solution designed to restore a sense of autonomy and ease in public travel. Key findings reveal systemic gaps in physical accessibility, digital usability, and sensory overload-highlighting a need for more responsive and context-aware interventions. Through immersive field work and stakeholder engagement, this research introduces a solution framework which is divided into three parts, encompassing a platform identification system with the help of vibro-sonic feedback, one handed gesture-based interaction and a simplified, high contrast user interface for users with low vision. By leveraging inclusive design methods rooted in lived experiences, the study aims to empower visually impaired commuters and foster more equitable access to urban transportation in the Indian context.